DELHI, India — After days of uncertainty and logistical challenges, the West Indies senior men’s cricket team could finally be on its way home.
The Caribbean side has remained in India following the conclusion of its campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, unable to depart as scheduled due to widespread international airspace restrictions triggered by escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
But according to Cricket West Indies (CWI), the long wait could soon end.
In an update issued Thursday, the regional governing body revealed that arrangements are underway for the squad to leave the subcontinent “within the next 24 hours.”
Airspace crisis disrupts travel plans
The West Indies team had initially planned to depart India earlier in the week after their tournament run ended with elimination at the hands of the host nation last week Sunday.
However, deteriorating security conditions across parts of the Gulf region forced authorities to impose international airspace restrictions, resulting in altered flight routes and the closure of several airports. The disruption effectively halted the team’s travel plans, leaving players and staff temporarily stranded.
Since then, officials have been working to navigate the complex travel environment.
“CWI has remained in constant dialogue with the players, team management, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) since their last match against India,” the governing body said in its statement.
Charter flight being finalized
Efforts to secure a safe route home intensified during a high-level meeting on Thursday involving CWI executives, officials from the International Cricket Council, and representatives from both the team management and players.
The discussion produced a breakthrough.
“While the situation remains complex and fluid due to international space 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 statement said.
It added: “During a high-level call earlier today [Thursday] involving CWI, ICC officials, a representative of team management, and a representative of the players, it was confirmed that a charter flight is currently being arranged for the team’s departure from India, with the expected departure scheduled within the next 24 hours. The departure time remains subject to final air traffic approvals.”
Safety remains the top priority
Despite the uncertainty surrounding travel logistics, CWI stressed that the players and staff remain safe while the final details are being arranged.
“The team remains safe and well as arrangements continue to be finalised. CWI reiterates that the safe return of our players and staff remains our highest priority,” the statement further added.
If approvals are granted as expected, the chartered departure would finally bring an end to an anxious wait for the West Indies squad and supporters across the Caribbean eager to see them safely back on home soil.
