India, Dec. 18 -- What was meant to be a festive night of international cricket in Lucknow ended in anger and heartbreak after the fourth T20I between India and South Africa was abandoned because of heavy fog, leaving thousands of fans without a single delivery being bowled.

Visibility at the Ekana Cricket Stadium failed to improve despite repeated inspections, and after more than two hours of delays, umpires called off the match at 9:25pm IST. The decision triggered visible frustration among spectators who had waited patiently in the cold stands, hoping conditions would clear.

For some, the disappointment ran deeper than a wasted evening. One fan said he had sold agricultural produce to afford the experience.

"(Gehu bech ke liya match...