West Indies cricketers stranded in India: Latest situation explained

West Indies cricketers stranded in India: Latest situation explained

West Indies cricketers are stuck in Kolkata for the fifth consecutive day, following their exit from the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.

The delay is due to international airspace restrictions, which were imposed after US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

A charter flight has been arranged for the team but final air traffic approvals are still pending.

"WI & SA, both teams' departure details still awaited," a Cricket Association of Bengal official told PTI.

South Africa's departure uncertain

While the West Indies team remains stranded, four South African players are likely to leave for New Zealand on Friday night. They will be heading there for an upcoming bilateral series.

The rest of the South Africa squad's departure from Kolkata is still uncertain after their T20 World Cup campaign ended in a semi-final defeat to New Zealand on Wednesday.

CWI confirms charter flight is being arranged

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed that a charter flight is being arranged for the team's return to their home country.

The decision was taken after they were stuck in Kolkata for over four days due to international airspace restrictions in the Gulf region.

CWI also said it had been in constant touch with the players, team management and the International Cricket Council (ICC) while working on travel arrangements.

CWI issues a statement

"During a high-level call earlier today 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," CWI had said in a statement.

"The departure time remains subject to final air traffic approvals. The team remains safe and well as arrangements continue to be finalised," the governing body added.

Some WI players may stay back in India

Some West Indies players may stay back in India to join their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. The tournament is scheduled to start at the end of this month.

Rovman Powell is with Kolkata Knight Riders, Sherfane Rutherford with Mumbai Indians, Shimron Hetmyer with Rajasthan Royals, and Romario Shepherd with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.