Zimbabwe Players Exit Delayed Due To Middle East War Disruption

Several members of the Zimbabwe men’s cricket team have begun leaving India in stages after their return home was delayed due to airspace disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The team’s travel plans were thrown into disarray following the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, as closures of Gulf airspace halted flights on key international routes that connect India with southern Africa.

Zimbabwe’s World Cup campaign ended with elimination during the Super Eights stage, and the squad had originally planned to depart on March 2, with flights routing via Dubai. However, escalating tensions and widespread airspace closures — triggered by military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran — forced airlines to suspend or reroute services through the Gulf, leaving the players and support staff stranded in Delhi for several days.

To address the travel disruption, the International Cricket Council (ICC) intervened to arrange alternative travel routes for the Zimbabwean contingent. The board coordinated with airlines and relevant authorities to secure new flight options that avoid the conflict‑affected corridors, allowing the squad to begin its journey home via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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Under the revised arrangements, the team is returning in batches rather than as a single group. The first group of players departed India on Wednesday, while remaining members of the touring party are due to leave later in the week, with the final batch scheduled for Friday afternoon. Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed the departures and expressed gratitude to the ICC for facilitating the safe return of its players and staff.

The disruptions have also affected other teams, notably the West Indies, whose squad remained stuck in India as they awaited alternative travel plans following their own exit from the tournament. Cricket boards are continuing to work with the ICC and government authorities to ensure secure and timely departures for displaced teams.

The episode highlights how geopolitical tensions in one region can have far‑reaching effects on international sport and travel logistics. As Zimbabwe’s players continue their journey home under these adjusted arrangements, cricket authorities are monitoring the situation and adjusting contingency plans to prevent further complications for teams involved in global competitions.

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