ICC Rejects Bias Claims Over Stranded South Africa, West Indies Cricketers. City, Country — The International Cricket Council (ICC) has dismissed allegations of bias after the West Indies and South Africa cricket teams were stranded in India for over a week following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup, while the England squad departed within two days.
The ICC faced criticism for what some perceived as preferential treatment of England, given the travel disruptions caused by Middle Eastern airspace closures and rerouted flights.
However, the ICC stated on Wednesday that 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, “the ICC said in a statement. Officials commented on the matter. “.
West Indies players began leaving India on commercial flights 10 days after their scheduled departure, prompting social media posts expressing frustration.
The ICC confirmed that nine West Indies players and staff members were already traveling to the Caribbean, with the remaining 16 booked on flights departing India within 24 hours. South Africa, who have been stranded in India since March 4, were set to begin their journey home on Wednesday, with the entire contingent departing within the next 36 hours.
Darren Sammy, head coach of the West Indies, expressed his frustration on social media, writing, “I just wanna go home, “followed by a request for an update after being left in the dark for five days.
South Africa players Quinton De Kock and David Miller also commented on the perceived discrepancy in treatment, noting the quick departure of the England team.
The ICC emphasized that the criticism was “incorrect “and that there was no comparison between the arrangements for South Africa and the West Indies and those made for England, “which arose from separate circumstances, routing options, and different travel conditions.
Further details are expected as the situation unfolds.
