T20 World Cup 2026 teams face travel chaos as Middle East tensions disrupt flights. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock and West Indies players expressed frustration over ICC’s decision to send England home first, while their teams remained stranded in India.
Players Demand Faster Return Home Amid Middle East Tensions
New Delhi: The 2026 T20 World Cup has reached its final stage. The final match is scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand. Meanwhile, controversy has arisen regarding the return of some teams stranded in India. Due to rising tensions in the Middle East and airspace closures, flights for some teams are being delayed.
South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock openly expressed his displeasure with this decision. He wrote on his Instagram story that he couldn't understand why England was sent first. De Kock questioned why teams like West Indies and South Africa were stranded in India for a long time, yet why they weren't given the opportunity to return home first.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan also expressed concern about the ICC's decision. He said that all teams should be treated equally. The special treatment given to only a few teams is affecting others. Meanwhile, West Indies head coach Darren Sammy also expressed his disappointment, saying his team simply wanted to go home.
According to reports, the ICC has arranged chartered flights. The England team departed directly from Mumbai for London on March 7, 2026. South Africa and the West Indies will depart from Kolkata via Johannesburg on Sunday. West Indies will then continue their journey to Antigua. However, the two teams have not yet received confirmation of the exact time.
The growing instability in the Middle East is causing players mental distress. After being stranded in India for so long, they want to return to their families as soon as possible. The reactions of Quinton de Kock and other players indicate the need for transparency and equity in ICC decisions.
The excitement surrounding the 2026 T20 World Cup continues, but focusing on the safety and convenience of players has become a challenge for the ICC. Ensuring equal treatment for all teams and arranging flights on time has now become a priority.
