Windies players stranded in India for more than a week finally return home

Several cricket teams are facing travel issues after the T20 World Cup in India as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has closed airspace in parts of West Asia. As a result, charter flights arranged by the International Cricket Council (ICC) were delayed, leaving teams such as West Indies stranded in India.To address the issue, Cricket West Indies (CWI) decided not to wait for uncertain charter flights and instead arrange commercial travel for their players and support staff. The board said the decision was made to ensure everyone can return home safely without further delays.

CWI explained the reasoning behind the move in a statement, “For the well-being and safety of players and support staff, Cricket West Indies has advised the ICC that it is no longer prudent to continue to wait for charter flight arrangements as charter flight arrangements remain uncertain. Since then, CWI, players and other partners, in coordination with the ICC, have taken a number of approaches to secure commercial travel to facilitate the team’s safe return. It is important to note that some players and staff have already departed and the remainder have already left.” Members are scheduled to return today (Tuesday 10 March) and tomorrow (March 2026) Departure on Wednesday, November 11th). “The Board also thanks fans and stakeholders for their patience during this situation. “Cricket West Indies would like to thank fans and key stakeholders for their concern and interest in resolving this matter and would like to thank all parties for their support and patience.”The travel disruption also affected other teams. Zimbabwe, which played its last match against South Africa in New Delhi on March 1, faces similar travel difficulties due to airspace restrictions. It was originally planned to set off in batches, but their plans were canceled before other arrangements could be made.