T20 World Cup 2026: Middle East unrest delays homebound travel for West Indies and Zimbabwe

The escalating tension due to the ongoing kinetic conflict in the Middle East has led to a delay in the homebound travel for both Zimbabwe and West Indies following the culmination of their participation in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Several countries in the Gulf region have imposed international airspace restrictions, and therefore, the players from both teams are forced to extend their stay in India.

"CWI is working closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC), relevant governmental authorities and airline partners to secure the earliest possible safe travel arrangements for the squad and support staff. The safety and well-being of our players, coaches, and officials remain our highest priority," a statement from Cricket West Indies read.

"The team is currently accommodated in India and remains safe and well. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as confirmed travel arrangements are finalised."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is closely monitoring the "evolving situation" and has activated a Travel Support Desk to assist players, team managements, and event staff, among others, returning to their home countries.

"While the crisis in the Middle East has no direct bearing on the conduct of the tournament, the ICC acknowledges that a significant number of personnel - including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event staff - rely on Gulf hub airports, particularly Dubai (DXB), as key transit points for onward travel to their home countries upon concluding their commitments at the event," the ICC said in a statement.

"The ICC Travel and Logistics team is actively working with major international carriers to identify and secure alternative routing options, including connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs. The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated."