Flights secured for return of Windies World Cup squad

The ongoing flight saga concerning the West Indian Men’s team that recently competed in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup took an optimistic turn on Tuesday as Cricket West Indies (CWI) revealed that commercial flights were secured for the team’s return to the Caribbean.
The West Indies were ousted from World Cup contention on Sunday, March 1, following their five-wicket loss to eventual champions India in the final match of the Super Eight stage. Since then, airspace restrictions as a result of ongoing tensions in the Middle East had prevented the team from departing Kolkata.
Matters worsened when several players, including Head Coach Daren Sammy, took their laments to social media, asking to return home or, in the least, some communication on the matter.

As such, a third statement from Cricket West Indies (CWI) on the matter shared, “Cricket West Indies advises that, following continued delays with charter flight arrangements organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC), commercial travel for members of the West Indies squad currently in India has been secured.”
“As is customary for both men’s and women’s ICC World Cups, all travel and accommodation arrangements for participating teams are coordinated and managed by the ICC,” the CWI disclosed, responding to enquiries in the cricket world about whose purview flights and accommodations fall under.
CWI continued, “The charter flight, intended to transport both the West Indies and South African teams, was repeatedly delayed. After completing play, the West Indies squad remained in India for nine (9) days awaiting travel. However, ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ICC-organised charter, as a result of global tensions and aviation regulations, made the situation increasingly distressing.”
“In the interest of the well-being and safety of its players and support staff, Cricket West Indies advised the ICC that it was no longer prudent to continue waiting on the charter arrangements, which remain uncertain. Multiple approaches have since been made through CWI, players, and other partners, in coordination with the ICC, to secure commercial travel to facilitate the squad’s safe return. It is important to note that some players and staff have already departed, with the remaining members scheduled to depart today, Tuesday, 10th March, and tomorrow, Wednesday, 11th March 2026.”
“Cricket West Indies appreciates the concern and interest of fans and key stakeholders in the resolution of this matter and wishes to thank all parties for their support and patience,” the CWI missive concluded.