After days of uncertainty and travel complications, every member of the West Indies delegation that competed at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India has safely returned home.
The confirmation came in an official statement released Saturday by Cricket West Indies, which announced that the full 26-member conting, comprising players and team management, had successfully completed their journeys back to their respective destinations across the Caribbean and beyond.
The development brings a welcome end to a tense logistical situation that left the squad stranded overseas for more than a week.
Nine days of uncertainty in Kolkata
Following the conclusion of their tournament campaign, the West Indies group remained stuck in Kolkata for nine days after regional conflict in West Asia triggered widespread disruptions to international air travel.
Chartered flights initially arranged through the International Cricket Council were ultimately canceled, forcing officials to scramble for alternative arrangements.
In the end, commercial flights were secured earlier in the week, allowing players and support staff to gradually depart India and begin the long journey home.
CWI confirms safe conclusion
In its statement, Cricket West Indies confirmed that the situation has now been fully resolved.
“Cricket West Indies wishes to advise that, as of today, Saturday, March 14, 2026, all players and members of the Team Management Unit (TMU) who were part of the West Indies men’s squad at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India have returned home safely,” the organization said.
“Following the previously outlined challenges relating to cancellations of chartered flights coordinated by the International Cricket Council (ICC), commercial travel was successfully secured for the members of the squad earlier this week. The final group of players and support staff completed their journeys over the past several days and have now safely arrived at their respective destinations.”
Appreciation for global support
CWI also acknowledged the many stakeholders who assisted in resolving the situation.
“Cricket West Indies extends its sincere appreciation to the ICC, regional cricket boards, and other stakeholders who assisted in facilitating the safe return of the team. We also thank West Indies fans and the wider cricketing community for their concern and well-wishes.”
The governing body emphasized that player safety remained the top priority throughout the ordeal.
“The well-being and safety of our players and staff remain paramount, and we are grateful that the matter has now been brought to a safe and satisfactory conclusion,” the statement added.
A challenging episode ends
With the final members of the traveling party now safely back across the region, the episode closes a difficult chapter for Caribbean cricket during the tournament.
What began as a routine departure from India turned into an extended travel ordeal, but one that ultimately ended with relief for players, officials, and fans alike throughout the West Indies.
caribbeannationalweekly.com
