ICC Arranges Charter Flights for T20 World Cup Teams Stuck in India
The conflict in the Middle East has caused travel problems for teams in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India. Flight restrictions mean that West Indies, South Africa, and now England have had to stay in India while new plans are made for them to fly home.
According to The Independent, the England team, led by Harry Brook, was supposed to leave on Friday, a day after losing their semi-final to India in Mumbai. However, they have been stranded until at least Saturday and are working with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to arrange a charter flight to the UK. The publication reported that the T20I squad could depart either on Saturday or Sunday. Interestingly, players such as Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Phil Salt and Jofra Archer are expected to return to India soon to take part in IPL 2026, which is likely to begin in the last week of March.
Charter Flights Arranged for T20 World Cup Teams Stuck in India
Meanwhile, West Indies and South Africa are still waiting for flights home after leaving the tournament. West Indies were knocked out in the Super 8 stage last Sunday, and South Africa lost in the semi-final on Wednesday. Earlier this week, Cricket West Indies (CWI) stated a charter flight has been arranged for their squad to fly back home subject to air traffic approval.
This came after West Indies coach Daren Sammy vented his frustration on social media, indicating that there have been no updates regarding when they will be able to leave.
“During a high-level call earlier today involving CWI, ICC officials, a representative of team management, and a representative of the players, it was confirmed that a charter flight is currently being arranged for the team’s departure from India, with the expected departure scheduled within the next 24 hours," CWI said in a statement.
“The departure time remains subject to final air traffic approvals. The team remains safe and well as arrangements continue to be finalized," the governing body added.
