After Lucknow Fog Cancellation, BCCI Takes Major Decision on Match Scheduling from Dec 15 to Jan 15

The fourth T20 International between India and South Africa in Lucknow was cancelled due to dense fog and poor air quality, raising serious questions about the BCCI’s scheduling policies. In response, the Board has now taken a major decision regarding match scheduling between 15 December and 15 January.

No Matches in North India During Peak Winter Months

The Lucknow match, scheduled for Wednesday night at the Ekana Stadium, was abandoned as the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached hazardous levels, making play impossible. Following this, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized the BCCI for poor planning, while fellow Congress member and BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla defended the Board, assuring that the BCCI is taking the issue seriously.

Shukla explained that dense fog and pollution pose major challenges for cricket matches in North India during December-January. Consequently, the BCCI has decided to avoid scheduling matches in North India during this period. Future fixtures will take weather and air quality factors into account to ensure safe and uninterrupted play.

Rotational Policy and Alternative Venues

When questioned about Tharoor’s suggestion that matches could have been shifted to Kerala, Shukla clarified that the BCCI follows a rotational policy, under which southern states like Kerala also regularly host matches. While Tharoor humorously suggested moving matches to Kerala, Shukla emphasized that the Board will consider air quality, climate, and safety factors while assigning venues.

Implications for Fans

This move means that cricket fans in Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh may have to travel to other parts of India to watch Team India play between mid-December and mid-January in future seasons. The decision underscores the BCCI’s commitment to player safety and uninterrupted cricket despite environmental challenges.