Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have left the West Indies and Zimbabwe cricket teams stranded in India, delaying their return home from the T20 World Cup.
International airspace closures and widespread flight cancellations across Gulf nations, stemming from escalating conflict between Iran, the US and Israel, have disrupted some of the world’s busiest transit hubs.
Both teams had recently exited the tournament; West Indies failed to reach the semi-finals after a five-wicket loss to hosts India on Sunday, while Zimbabwe was eliminated following three defeats in their Super Eights matches against West Indies, India and South Africa.
Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed the situation in a social media post, stating: “The Zimbabwe men’s team remains safe and well in India… the squad was scheduled to return home via Dubai.”
Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced they are working closely with the sport’s global governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), to secure safe travel arrangements for their players and staff.
The ICC, which is headquartered in Dubai, had previously activated contingency plans for its own personnel who were also scheduled to transit through the region.
CWI reiterated their primary concern, adding: “The safety and well-being of our players, coaches, and officials remain our highest priority.”
Both team had impressed during the early stages of the tournament, with Zimbabwe beating Australia and Sri Lanka in their group, while West Indies also went through the initial group stage unbeaten after picking up an impressive win against England.
However, they came unstuck in the Super Eights, and will not be involved in this week’s semi-finals.
The first semi-final is due to take place on Wednesday, with an unbeaten South Africa taking on New Zealand.
The following day, England and India will meet in Mumbai for the third consecutive time at the semi-final stage of the T20 World Cup.
