India-South Africa T20I Showdown at Ekana: Delays, Changes, and Anticipation

India faces South Africa in the fourth T20I at Lucknow, with India leading the series 2-1. Fog delays the toss, and Axar Patel is replaced by Shahbaz Ahmed due to illness. The decisive fifth match will conclude the series in Ahmedabad on December 19.

The fourth T20I between India and South Africa, set at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, faced a delayed start due to dense fog, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed.

Amidst a 2-1 series lead over South Africa, India's team dynamics faced a slight shift with all-rounder Axar Patel being ruled out due to illness. The BCCI announced his ongoing medical evaluation and presence with the team.

Stepping in for Patel, Shahbaz Ahmed was named by the BCCI Men's Selection Committee to bolster India's lineup for the remaining matches. The series finale is scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on December 19.

(With inputs from agencies.)