The T20 World Cup 2026 concluded with India defeating New Zealand in the final on Sunday, March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The ongoing war situation in the Middle East has restricted global airspace, leaving teams like West Indies and South Africa completely stranded in India.
England managed to make a comeback after losing in the semi-finals. West Indies played their final match on 1 March and South Africa lost their semi-final on 4 March. This sparked widespread outrage, with players and experts accusing the International Cricket Council (ICC) of bias and preferential treatment.
Darren Sammy, Michael Vaughan criticize ICC over travel chaos
West Indies head coach Darren Sammy expressed disappointment over the delay in travel arrangements. The veteran cricketer sought answers from the cricket board regarding this confusing situation on social media.
“I just want to go home. At least an update, give us something,” Sammi posted on X.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan criticized the international board for mishandling the complex travel situation. The veteran commentator accused the governing body of giving special treatment to powerful cricket boards instead of treating every stranded team equally.
“In this situation all teams should be treated equally. Just because you are more powerful in the ICC table, it should not be counted,” Vaughan said.
ICC reacts to travel controversy after global backlash
Following severe backlash from the global cricket community, an official ICC spokesperson addressed the travel controversy. According to a BBC report, the international governing body said the delayed departure schedules were strictly based on operational security and logistical constraints.
“Decisions on departure sequencing are being driven solely by airspace availability, en route permission, visa requirements and operational security considerations.”
“Any suggestion that teams have been prioritized on any basis other than these handicaps is false,” the BBC quoted an ICC spokesperson as saying.
West Indies, England and South Africa were scheduled to leave India via the Gulf region. England managed to leave via Egypt on Saturday, while West Indies and South Africa remained stuck in India due to restrictions.
ICC explains why England team left early
The board clarified the reason for the early departure of the English team. According to the official statement, his specific flight route from Mumbai was completely clear of dangerous conflict areas. Meanwhile, the stranded West Indies and South African teams will travel together on Monday.
“For example, the England team and their staff were able to fly from Mumbai without any restrictions as the en route’s airspace was unaffected and flights were operating normally.”
“The ICC categorically refutes any claims of bias in this or other matters, and continues to fully accept the specific demands and conditions put forward by the teams.”
“ICC’s logistics and events teams are continuously working with governments, aviation authorities, airlines and charter providers to secure safe travel options for all participating teams and tournament personnel.”
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