The International Cricket Council (ICC) has activated comprehensive contingency plans to protect players, officials and staff involved in the ongoing Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East that disrupted key global travel routes.
The conflict broke out in full on Saturday after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iranprompting retaliation from Tehran and its allies, Hezbollah and the Houthis. Missiles were fired at Tel Aviv and US bases in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain, with explosions reported in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. One person, described as Asian, died in the United Arab Emirates after falling debris hit the ground when Iranian missiles were intercepted by air defense systems.
While the crisis does not directly affect the matches in India and Sri Lanka, the ICC acknowledged that the situation could affect the travel plans of many participants in the tournament. A significant number of players, team officials, match referees, broadcast staff and event staff rely on Gulf hub airports – particularly Dubai International Airport – as major transit points when traveling to and from international assignments.
As the tournament entered a crucial phase, the global governing body moved quickly to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of everyone associated with the event.
“The safety and well-being of every individual associated with our event is the ICC’s highest priority,” said an ICC spokesperson. “We have already mobilized our travel, logistics and security teams and are working around the clock to ensure that all parties involved can return home safely and with minimal disruption.”
The spokesman also urged caution for traveling supporters. “We would like to urge fans who have traveled or are planning to travel to the Men’s World T20 2026 to carefully monitor and adhere to the advice issued and consider all factors before undertaking further international travel.”
Dubai has long served as a key air hub for international cricket, connecting players and officials from different continents. Any disruption to Gulf airspace has the potential to affect travel plans, particularly for teams and staff expected to depart soon after World Cup commitments.
In response, ICC’s Travel and Logistics Department is working closely with major international airlines to identify and secure alternative routes. These include potential connections via European, South Asian and South East Asian hubs, ensuring flexibility in travel planning should Gulf routes remain affected.
WHERE WILL THE REMAINING MATCHES BE PLAYED?
- South Africa vs Zimbabwe in Delhi on March 1
- India vs West Indies in Kolkata on March 1
- Semi Final 1 in Calcutta/Colombo on March 4
- Semi Final 2 in Mumbai on March 5th
- Final in Ahmedabad/Colomo on March 8
ICC-appointed security advisors are also in constant contact with the relevant authorities, monitoring developments and issuing real-time alerts. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Unit has been established to assist teams and staff with revised travel arrangements and provide immediate support when needed.
Despite the geopolitical tensions, the ICC reiterated its commitment to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the tournament. With the emergency measures now in place, the governing body remains focused on ensuring the remainder of the T20 World Cup is uninterrupted, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants and stakeholders.
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Issued by:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
28 Feb 2026 19:28 IST
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