The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected allegations of bias after several teams participating in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 remained stranded in India due to travel disruptions. The global cricket body clarified that the delays were caused by the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, which has significantly affected international air travel and flight schedules.
In an official statement, the ICC acknowledged the frustration among players, coaching staff, and their families but emphasised that the travel issues were beyond its control. The governing body said it is working closely with airlines, airport authorities, and governments to arrange safe departures for all affected teams.
Teams stranded after tournament exit
Several teams that completed their campaigns in the T20 World Cup have been unable to leave India due to disrupted flight routes. Among the affected teams are West Indies and South Africa, whose players remained in the country days after finishing their matches.
West Indies had played their last match on March 1 but were still waiting for travel arrangements more than a week later. Similarly, South Africa had remained in India following their semifinal defeat to New Zealand on March 4.
These delays sparked frustration among players and team officials who were eager to return home after the conclusion of the tournament.
Gulf conflict disrupts global air travel
According to the ICC, the primary reason behind the delays is the ongoing conflict across the Gulf region. The tensions in West Asia have led to airspace restrictions, missile alerts, and flight cancellations, affecting many international routes.
Many international flights rely on transit hubs in the Gulf region, such as Dubai and other major airports. With these routes disrupted, airlines have had to cancel or reroute flights, complicating travel plans for players and officials returning from the tournament.
The ICC said these conditions have made travel arrangements significantly more complex than usual.
ICC rejects allegations of preferential treatment
Questions were raised when England’s team managed to return to the United Kingdom earlier through a charter flight from Mumbai, while other teams remained stranded.
However, the ICC strongly rejected claims that any country received preferential treatment. The organisation stated that travel arrangements for each team depended on different routes, flight availability, and safety considerations at the time.
The governing body said linking England’s departure with the delays faced by other teams was incorrect and based on incomplete information.
Efforts underway to arrange departures
The ICC said it has been working continuously with airlines, charter operators, and airport authorities to organise safe travel solutions. Officials confirmed that travel arrangements for the affected teams were being finalised.
According to the latest update, members of the South African contingent were expected to begin departing soon, with all players likely to leave within about 36 hours. Meanwhile, some members of the West Indies squad had already started their journey back home, while the remaining players were scheduled to depart shortly.
Safety of players remains top priority
The ICC stressed that the safety and welfare of players, support staff, and their families remains its top priority. The organisation said it would not approve any travel arrangement unless it was completely safe.
Many players are travelling with spouses and children, making careful planning essential. The governing body assured teams that it is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as new travel options become available.
Global crisis affecting sports logistics
The situation highlights how geopolitical conflicts can disrupt international sporting events even after the competition has ended. With the Gulf region acting as a major aviation hub for global travel, any disruption there can affect teams, officials, broadcasters, and fans worldwide.
The ICC reiterated that it is doing everything possible to resolve the crisis quickly and thanked players, boards, and partners for their patience during the unprecedented situation.