Travel Delays Impacting Teams

The ongoing crisis across the Gulf region has resulted in significant travel delays for teams participating in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, particularly affecting the West Indies and South Africa squads. Both teams faced extended waits in India after their respective exits from the tournament, with the West Indies stranded for nine days.

West Indies exited the competition on March 1, 2026, while South Africa’s campaign concluded on March 4, 2026. Following their departures, the teams encountered severe disruptions in their travel plans due to airlines cancelling or rerouting flights amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Cricket West Indies reported that its squad experienced a frustrating wait for a charter flight that was repeatedly delayed. Nine members of the West Indies team had already begun their journey back to the Caribbean, while the remaining 16 players were booked on flights expected to depart within 24 hours.

In contrast, the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated that all members of the South Africa contingent are anticipated to leave within 36 hours. The ICC emphasized that travel arrangements were made with a focus on safety, feasibility, and the welfare of the players and staff.

ICC officials expressed understanding of the anxiety felt by players, coaches, and support staff regarding their return home. “We understand that players, coaches, support staff and their families who have completed their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns are anxious to return home,” an ICC spokesperson stated.

Furthermore, the ICC acknowledged the frustration caused by the delays, noting, “That they have not yet been able to do so is a source of genuine frustration, and the International Cricket Council shares that frustration.” The organization reassured that they would not facilitate travel until they were confident in the safety of the arrangements.

In a related development, the Iranian women’s football team recently arrived in Malaysia after being granted humanitarian visas from Australia. This move was prompted by safety concerns regarding their return to Iran, particularly after some players faced backlash for not singing the national anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup.

Six players and one staff member from the Iranian women’s football team were granted these humanitarian visas, allowing them to seek refuge and safety outside their home country.

As the situation continues to evolve, details remain unconfirmed regarding the travel arrangements for both cricket teams and the Iranian players. The ICC remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals affected by these travel disruptions.