Hours after West Indies coach Daren Sammy complained on social media that he could not return home after international airspace restrictions were imposed on Iran following US and Israeli strikes, a charter flight was arranged for the West Indies team. The team crashed out of the T20 World Cup after losing to India in the Super Eight match on Sunday, March 1 in Kolkata.
Four days later, the team was left stranded in the country after international restrictions were imposed on Saturday 28 February.
A source told PTI, “A charter has been arranged for West Indies to fly home.”
Daren Sammy responded to the flight arrangements, saying: “I have an update. That’s all WI wanted.”
Earlier in the day, he posted on social media that he wanted to go home. In another post, Sammy demanded clarification on their travel plans. “At least an update, tell us something. Today, tmw, next week. It’s been 5 days,” he said.
Within hours, a charter flight was arranged for the team to fly back home.
Several West Indies players are in India with their IPL franchise for the remaining matches of the T20 World Cup.
Rovman Powell is in Kolkata Knight Riders and their camp starts on March 18. Sherfane Rutherford plays for Mumbai Indians while Shimron Hetmyer represents Rajasthan Royals and Romario Shepherd is with Royal Challengers Bengaluru who start training on March 15.
A representative of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) said the International Cricket Council was handling the matter.
“It is completely being handled by the ICC. We have no update on the movement of the West Indies team, but as per the latest update, they are still here and looking for a charter flight,” an official told PTI earlier in the day.
Cricket West Indies said it was working with the ICC and relevant authorities to ensure the safe return of the players. “Cricket West Indies (CWI) wishes to advise that the departure of the West Indies senior men’s team from India following their withdrawal from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been delayed due to international airspace restrictions,” the management said in a statement.
“These restrictions are a direct result of security threats posed by military action in the Persian Gulf region, which has affected several international flight routes and required airlines to adjust scheduled flights for security reasons.”
“CWI appreciates the understanding and concern of our fans, families and stakeholders during this time.”
