T20 WC: Travel disruptions delay Zimbabwe’s return from India

Zimbabwe's cricket team is facing delays in returning home from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India due to air travel disruptions caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East

The team's initial travel plans included a route through Dubai, which is currently not operational due to a joint attack by the US and Israel on Iran, causing significant travel disruptions

Zimbabwe had a remarkable performance in the tournament, advancing to the Super 8 stage undefeated and securing victories against former champions Australia and Sri Lanka, despite losing all matches in the Super 8 stage

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has confirmed the team is safe and remains in India as they await alternative travel arrangements, working closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to ensure a safe return

The ICC has activated contingency measures, collaborating with international carriers to find alternative routes, ensuring the team's timely return while maintaining constant communication with Zimbabwe Cricket

Head coach Justin Sammons expressed the team's uncertainty about their travel plans after their campaign ended with a five-wicket loss to South Africa in New Delhi

The unrest in the Middle East has particularly affected cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait, where Iranian force strikes have suspended airport operations

Zimbabwe's team, originally scheduled to return in three batches, includes Graeme Cremer, who resides in Dubai and is particularly distressed by the ongoing situation due to his family's residence there

Despite the travel uncertainties, the team maintained their focus on the game, as noted by coach Sammons, though the situation was an underlying concern for them

Further updates from the ICC and ZC are awaited as they continue to monitor the evolving situation and work on securing safe travel for the team back to Zimbabwe