BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – ESCALATING tensions between the United States, Iran and Israel have disrupted air travel across parts of the Middle East and Asia, leaving the West Indies men’s senior team stranded in India.
The regional side was due to depart India after losing their final group match on Sunday (Mar. 1) to India at the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup, a result that ended their semi-final hopes. However, widespread airspace closures and flight adjustments across the region have delayed their return.
In a media statement, Cricket West Indies confirmed that the delay stems from “security threats posed by military action in the Gulf Region,” which have forced airlines to reroute or suspend several international services.
The organisation said it is working closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC), government authorities and airline partners to secure the earliest safe travel arrangements for players and support staff.
“The safety and well-being of our players, coaches and officials remain our highest priority,” the statement added, noting that the team remains safely accommodated in India.
The disruption extends beyond cricket. The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) said it is closely monitoring developments in the region, where it recently staged several high-profile events.
One tournament concluded on Saturday, but a number of players and staff remain in Dubai, where they are sheltering in place. The ATP confirmed that those affected are being accommodated in official tournament hotels.
“The health, safety and well-being of our players, staff and tournament personnel is our priority,” the organisation said, adding that immediate needs are being fully supported.
The travel chaos follows US airstrikes in Iran authorised by President Donald Trump after diplomatic talks broke down. Reports indicate more than 200 people have been killed and over 700 injured in Iran since the strikes began.
Media outlets have also reported that at least six US service members were killed in retaliatory strikes on American bases in Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, further intensifying tensions across the region.
