New Delhi: The West Indies and Zimbabwe cricket teams, along with their support staff, remain stranded in India following widespread flight cancellations caused by escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Both teams were eliminated at the Super Eights stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday and were scheduled to travel home via the United Arab Emirates. However, after Iran launched missile and drone attacks across the Gulf in response to US-Israeli strikes, major transit hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi witnessed large-scale airspace closures and flight disruptions.
Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed in a statement that the senior men’s team remains safe in India. “The squad was scheduled to return home via Dubai, but travel plans have been affected by the evolving situation in the Middle East,” the board said.
Cricket West Indies also stated that it is working closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC), relevant authorities, and airline partners to arrange the earliest safe departure for players and staff.
The ICC, headquartered in Dubai, has reportedly activated contingency measures to ensure the safety of all teams and officials associated with the tournament.
Meanwhile, defending champions India, along with England, South Africa, and New Zealand, remain in India for the semifinal stage. Sri Lanka concluded their campaign in the Super Eights phase.
