England returned home promptly after their T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final exit, while South Africa and West Indies faced prolonged delays in India due to Middle East airspace restrictions from the USA-Israel-Iran conflict. Players including Quinton de Kock, David Miller, and Daren Sammy, along with former captain Michael Vaughan, accused the ICC of bias, prompting a denial from the governing body citing logistical constraints.
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India faced post-tournament travel chaos due to severe Middle East airspace restrictions, including shutdowns at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, triggered by the USA-Israel-Iran conflict.
West Indies were eliminated on March 1 after losing to India in the Super 8s at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, while South Africa exited on March 4 following a semi-final defeat to New Zealand in Kolkata. England, knocked out by India in the second semi-final in Mumbai on March 5, departed for London on March 7 via a charter flight through Egypt, where routes remained operational.
The disparity drew sharp criticism. South Africa batter Quinton de Kock posted on social media: "Funny, we have heard nothing! Strange how different teams have more pull than others." Teammate David Miller commented on an ESPNcricinfo Instagram post: "Funny that England gets eliminated after West Indies and South Africa and gets on a charter back home tonight. While West Indies and South Africa still wait for answers in Kolkata." West Indies head coach Daren Sammy replied: "@davidmillersa12 a little louder for those in the back to hear please sir," and shared an emotional plea: "Dear Lord, I put this situation in your hands... Give them all that is required to get us all safely to our destination sooner than later." He had earlier marked 'Day 6' on X since their exit.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan stated on X: "All teams in this situation should be treated the same. Just because you are more powerful at the ICC table shouldn't count."
Cricket West Indies issued a statement: "CWI has remained in constant dialogue with the players, team management, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) since their last match against India. While the situation remains complex and fluid due to international airspace restrictions arising from security concerns in the Gulf region, CWI assures the public that every precaution is being taken to ensure the safe return of the team to the Caribbean."
The ICC refuted bias claims: "Decisions on departure sequencing are being driven solely by airspace availability, aircraft routing permissions, visa requirements and operational safety considerations. Any suggestion that teams have been prioritised based on anything other than these constraints is incorrect." It confirmed West Indies and South Africa would travel together on a chartered flight from Kolkata to Johannesburg on Monday, March 9, with West Indies continuing to Antigua. Three South African players—Keshav Maharaj, George Linde, and Jason Smith—were scheduled to leave separately on Sunday for a series in New Zealand. England had departed from Mumbai, where flights operated normally.
Zimbabwe, eliminated on March 1 against South Africa in New Delhi, departed India in batches on March 4 and 6. The delays affect players preparing for the Indian Premier League starting later in March, though many from affected teams are expected to return soon for franchise duties.
The ICC continues coordinating with governments and airlines amid the fluid situation.
