T20 World Cup: West Indies and South Africa Stranded in India as Middle East Airspace Closes
New Delhi / Dubai: West Indies and South Africa cricket teams remain stranded in India following the closure of Middle Eastern airspace amid escalating regional tensions, casting fresh uncertainty over international cricket schedules.The International Cricket Council (ICC), in consultation with Cricket West Indies, had arranged a chartered flight to evacuate the West Indies squad, but…
New Delhi / Dubai: West Indies and South Africa cricket teams remain stranded in India following the closure of Middle Eastern airspace amid escalating regional tensions, casting fresh uncertainty over international cricket schedules.
The International Cricket Council (ICC), in consultation with Cricket West Indies, had arranged a chartered flight to evacuate the West Indies squad, but the aircraft has been unable to depart due to air traffic clearance not being granted. The prolonged wait has frustrated players, with unrest growing within the camp.
West Indies batter Shaerfane Rutherford voiced his frustration on social media, stating he was fed up and desperately wanted to go home. Team coach Daren Sammy had earlier also expressed his desire to leave India and return home as soon as possible.
South Africa’s squad is also reported to be stuck in India, with departure details for both teams yet to be confirmed. However, reports suggest that four South African players may travel separately to New Zealand for the upcoming bilateral series. A five-match T20 series between South Africa and New Zealand is scheduled to begin on March 15, but the departure of the remaining squad members remains unconfirmed.
