West Indies cricket board breaks silence on team’s delayed departure from India after Daren Sammy's desperate plea

International airspace restrictions were triggered by the US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Updated on: Mar 6, 2026, 08:36:49 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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According to a recent statement by Cricket West Indies (CWI), the West Indies cricket team's departure from India has been delayed due to international airspace restrictions. West Indies played their last T20 World Cup 2026 match on March 1, against India in the Super 8 stage. The Caribbean outfit failed to qualify for the semifinals and has been stranded in Kolkata since then.

West Indies players line up before a match. (REUTERS)

International airspace restrictions were triggered by the US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Also Read: Sanju Samson’s selfless Player of the Match gesture for Jasprit Bumrah as India enter back-to-back T20 World Cup finals

‘Security threats posed by military action in the Gulf Region’

In its statement, CWI explained, "These restrictions are a direct result of the security threats posed by military action in the Gulf Region, which has impacted several international flight routes and required airlines to adjust scheduled services for safety reasons."

"CWI is working closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC), relevant governmental authorities and airline partners to secure the earliest possible safe travel arrangements for the squad and support staff. The safety and well-being of our players, coaches, and officials remain our highest priority."

Earlier on Thursday, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy stated on X, saying, "I just wanna go home".

Then, he followed it up with another post, claiming, "At least an update, tell us something. Today, tmw, next week. It's been five days."

According to reports, many West Indies players are also expected to remain in India, as their respective IPL teams will soon begin preparations for the upcoming season. Rovman Powell is part of KKR, and their camp begins on March 18. Meanwhile, Sherfane Rutherford is part of MI. Shimron Hetmyer is signed to the Rajasthan Royals, and Romario Shepherd plays for RCB, who are expected to start their camp from March 15.

Even Zimbabwe were stranded in India due to airspace restrictions. But on Wednesday, the first batch of their squad members were able to leave Delhi for home after their travel itinerary was reworked.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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