Following the conclusion of their T20 World Cup campaign on the subcontinent, the contingent of West Indian players and support staff have found it difficult to return home after cancellations of flights due to the conflict taking place over the Gulf states and the Middle East.
With 5 days having passed since the Windies’ last game of their campaign, against India in Kolkata, it seems to be the case that the board and players are still struggling to make their way home. With head coach Daren Sammy have posted on his social media account over the last few days to highlight the team’s frustration, spin-bowler Akeal Hosein also joined the mix with a comment on the situation.
“At this point, I’m better off asking Cristiano [Ronaldo] to send the [jet] and come rescue me yes,” wrote Hosein tongue in cheek on his account on X, referencing how the Windies players were struggling to find any charter that would be able to guide them home safely in this time of conflict.
Hosein mentioned the legendary footballer, whose shirt number he shares and whose celebration he has paid homage to in the past. Hosein’s statement acts as an indication of the difficulties being faced at the moment.
Coach Sammy demands updates from CWI
The tensions between Iran and neighbouring states have bled into private citizens also struggling – India is hosting the ongoing World Cup, and given pre-existing air route blockades over Pakistan, the lack of an option to fly out over the Gulf has led to flight cancellations and a cramped air traffic schedule.
Head coach Sammy had previously posted on X saying “I just wanna go home,” and was finally relieved after Cricket West Indies released a statement confirming that the board was attempting to charter a plane for the team to return home. However, Hosein’s recent post seems to indicate that even this has fallen through.
CWI released a statement which read: “CWI has remained in constant dialogue with the players, team management, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) since their last match against India. While the situation remains complex and fluid due to international airspace restrictions arising from security concerns in the Gulf region, CWI assures the public that every precaution is being taken to ensure the safe return of the team to the Caribbean.”
While certain West Indies players and staff plan to return home, others are remaining in the subcontinent to begin preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League beginning later this month. Hosein is also part of the IPL, signed on by Chennai Super Kings, but is amongst those hoping to make a return later.
Windies are not the only team affected by the air traffic suspensions – Zimbabwe’s travel plans out of New Delhi also had to be reworked, but the African nation has reportedly begun to transport players and staff back home over the last day or so.
