ICC rejects bias claims from stranded South Africa, West Indies cricketers

"Frustrated players say they were left in the dark for days over their travel while England flew out within two days. Cricket's governing body has rejected suggestions of unequal treatment after the West Indies and South Africa squads were stranded in India for more than a week following their exit from the T20 World Cup, while England flew out in less than two days."

"Cricket West Indies said on Tuesday its squad had waited nine days for a charter flight that was repeatedly delayed, calling the uncertainty increasingly distressing. West Indies players were leaving India on commercial flights in batches 10 days after their scheduled departure, which led to frustrated players airing their thoughts in social media posts."

"The ICC said on Wednesday it rejects any suggestion that these decisions have been driven by anything other than safety, feasibility and welfare. We understand that players, coaches, support staff and their families who have completed their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns are anxious to return home."

Following the T20 World Cup in India, West Indies and South Africa teams experienced significant travel delays exceeding a week, while England departed within two days of their semifinal exit. The delays resulted from airspace closures and rerouted flights due to Middle East conflict. West Indies players waited nine days for a charter flight that was repeatedly postponed, with frustrated players expressing concerns on social media. South Africa remained stranded since March 4. The ICC rejected allegations of preferential treatment, stating decisions were based solely on safety, feasibility, and welfare considerations. West Indies players eventually departed on commercial flights in batches, with remaining contingents scheduled to leave within 24 hours. South Africa's full departure was planned within 36 hours.

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