NewzVille Sports Desk
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a statement regarding delays in the departure of teams following the conclusion of their campaigns at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to the ICC, players, coaches, support staff and their families whose tournament campaigns have ended are eager to return home. However, many have not yet been able to depart due to circumstances beyond the governing body’s control.
The ICC said the delays are the result of an ongoing crisis across the Gulf region that has significantly disrupted international air travel. The situation has led to airspace closures, missile warnings, rerouting constraints, and last-minute cancellations and rescheduling of both commercial and charter flights.
“These are conditions entirely outside the ICC’s control, and they have made each travel solution significantly more complex and time-consuming than under normal circumstances,” the statement said.
The governing body added that it has been working continuously with airlines, charter operators, airport authorities, ground handlers and government stakeholders across multiple jurisdictions to arrange safe travel for all affected groups as quickly as possible.
Under the current arrangements, the South Africa contingent is scheduled to begin departing for South Africa tonight, with all members expected to leave within the next 36 hours.
From the West Indies contingent, nine members are already en route to the Caribbean, while the remaining 16 are booked on flights departing India within the next 24 hours. The ICC said further updates will be provided once additional travel arrangements are confirmed.
The ICC emphasized that its primary concern throughout the process has been the safety and welfare of everyone involved, including players travelling with spouses and young children.
“We will not move people until we are satisfied that the travel solution in place is safe, and that commitment will not change,” the statement added.
The ICC thanked players, team management, cricket boards and partners for their patience and cooperation during what it described as an exceptionally difficult situation, noting that its teams are working around the clock and remain in constant contact with team managers as conditions continue to evolve.
