Why was IND vs SA 4th T20I called off despite no rain? Here’s the official reason
The IND vs SA 4th T20I was called off despite no visible rain, with officials citing unsafe playing conditions after inspections. Here’s what happened.
Last Updated: 09.47 PM, Dec 17, 2025
The India vs South Africa 4th T20I was called off after match officials concluded that poor visibility made it impossible for play to begin. Despite no rain interrupting proceedings, conditions around the ground failed to improve as the evening progressed. The delayed toss was the first indication that visibility was a serious concern, with officials monitoring the situation closely before taking a final call.
Under the floodlights, visibility remained below acceptable standards for international cricket. Players, umpires, and broadcasters were unable to clearly track the ball, particularly in the deep, where fielders would have faced the greatest risk.
With fast bowlers operating at high speeds and batters relying heavily on sightlines, officials determined that starting the match would compromise player safety and the integrity of the contest.
Unlike weather-related delays, the visibility issue offered no realistic window for recovery. The haze showed no signs of lifting, and waiting further would not have changed conditions meaningfully. After multiple inspections, it became evident that abandoning the match was inevitable, leading officials to call it off rather than delay proceedings without hope of improvement.
Final T20I becomes important for India and South Africa
With the fourth T20I producing no result, the focus now shifts entirely to the series decider in Ahmedabad. The abandonment means South Africa head into the final match with only a chance to level the series, while India retain the advantage going into the concluding fixture. Momentum, therefore, remains with the hosts despite the frustration of the washout.
For South Africa, the final game becomes a must-win encounter, both to draw the series and to regain confidence after an interrupted contest. India, meanwhile, will look to capitalise on home conditions and close out the series decisively. With everything now riding on the last match, expectations are high for a competitive finish in Ahmedabad.
Where to watch the India vs South Africa match?
Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs South Africa 4th T20I match online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.