According to ESPNcricinfo, the Zimbabwean contingent originally planned to leave in batches. Some members were scheduled to leave as early as 4:30 a.m. on Monday, while the remaining players and staff would follow later in the day. The team was booked on Emirates flights, which traveled from Delhi to Dubai before connecting to Harare. It is understood officials are now assessing other airlines and alternative routes to facilitate their return journey.
“No, not that I heard. When we started the game, there was nothing. And now we are just focused on the game, so I haven’t heard anything since,” Zimbabwe head coach Justin Sammons said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Meanwhile, Pakistan, who were eliminated on Saturday after their last Super Eight match, successfully returned to Lahore from Colombo via a SriLankan Airlines flight. In an official statement, the ICC said it is closely monitoring the developing situation and has activated extensive contingency plans to ensure travel, logistics and overall well-being of all stakeholders involved in the T20 World Cup.
“While the crisis in the Middle East has no direct impact on the conduct of the tournament, the ICC recognizes that a significant number of personnel – including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams and event staff – rely on airports in the Gulf hub, particularly Dubai (DXB), as key transit points for onward travel to their home countries after completing their obligations during the event,” the ICC said in a statement.
“The ICC Travel and Logistics team is actively working with major international airlines to identify and secure alternative route options, including connections via European, South Asian and South East Asian hubs. ICC Security Advisors are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advice as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated,” it added.
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