West Indies Cricket Team Faces Travel Delays After T20 World Cup Exit

The West Indies cricket team is experiencing significant travel disruptions following their elimination from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, resulting in a “distressing” wait for their return home. The team has been stranded in Kolkata, India, since March 1st due to widespread travel disruptions linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

ICC Charter Flight Issues

The International Cricket Council (ICC) initially planned to arrange a charter flight for both the West Indies and South Africa squads. Still, Cricket West Indies (CWI) reported that this arrangement faced “repeated delays.”

According to CWI, “Ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ICC-organised charter, as a result of global tensions and aviation regulations, made the situation increasingly distressing.” The organization stated it advised the ICC that continuing to wait for the charter was no longer advisable due to the wellbeing and safety of players and staff, as the charter arrangements remained uncertain.

Shift to Commercial Flights

Following the issues with the charter flight, CWI, players, and other partners collaborated with the ICC to secure commercial travel options for the team’s safe return. Some members of the West Indies contingent have already departed, with the remaining players and staff scheduled to leave on Tuesday, March 10th, and Wednesday, March 11th, 2026.

Criticism of ICC and South Africa’s Situation

The ICC has faced criticism from players of both the West Indies and South Africa regarding the handling of the travel arrangements. England, who were eliminated from the semi-finals on Thursday, February 27th, 2026, flew home on Saturday, February 29th, 2026, leading to accusations of bias against the ICC, which the governing body has “categorically” denied. ICC

Efforts to ascertain the travel plans of the South African team are ongoing.

Match Details

India secured a spot in the semi-finals with a victory over the West Indies on March 1st, 2026. Key performances included Shai Hope scoring 32 runs off 33 balls, although Jasprit Bumrah took key wickets for India. ESPN

West Indies Innings Scorecard Highlights:

• Shai Hope (c) †: 32 runs off 33 balls
• Roston Chase: 40 runs off 25 balls
• Shimron Hetmyer: 27 runs off 12 balls
• Rovman Powell: 34 runs off 19 balls
• Jason Holder: 37 runs off 22 balls

The West Indies posted a total of 195/4 in 20 overs.