Michael Vaughan slams ICC ‘power imbalance’ as England leave India while West Indies, South Africa remain stranded

India and the United Kingdom are well-connected with multiple direct flights. But it is not the same for the West Indies.

Updated on: Mar 7, 2026, 22:16:35 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Reacting to the West Indies' cricket team's current situation in Kolkata, Michael Vaughan slammed the power imbalance in the ICC. The Daren Sammy-coached side remains stranded in the city despite their elimination from the T20 World Cup on Sunday. It is due to international airspace restrictions triggered by the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which continue to disrupt travel plans.

Michael Vaughan reacted to England leaving India before West Indies and South Africa.

Taking to X, Vaughan pointed out that England were knocked out on Thursday but the players were able to leave India on Saturday. But West Indies and South Africa, who were eliminated before England, are still stuck in India.

Also Read: Suryakumar Yadav explains the series of events that paved the way for Sanju Samson’s return to India’s Playing XI

He wrote, “So England got knocked out on Thurs get a charter home today .. West Indies go out last Sunday and are still in Kolkata .. SA in the same position .. That’s where the power is all wrong .. All teams in this situation should be treated the same .. just because you are more powerful at the ICC table shouldn’t count ..”

But India and the United Kingdom are well-connected with multiple direct flights. But it is not the same for the West Indies. According to reports, South Africa and West Indies players and support staff will travel together to Johannesburg first.

Then from there, the West Indies will take another flight to Antigua and Barbuda.

Earlier, Cricket West Indies released a statement, confirming that they are working towards a solution. "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 statement said.

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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