New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) The return journey of the Zimbabwe cricket team from India following their commendable performance in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has been postponed due to significant air travel disruptions stemming from the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, as reported by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) in a statement issued on Monday.

Under the captaincy of Sikandar Raza, the Zimbabwe squad made headlines by advancing to the Super 8 stage without a single defeat, achieving remarkable wins against former champions Australia and Sri Lanka. Despite facing losses in all three of their Super 8 matches, Zimbabwe concluded their tournament run with pride, having surpassed the expectations of many fans by reaching this advanced stage.

Unfortunately, the team’s homecoming celebrations are now postponed, as they are unable to board their flight due to the escalating conflict following a coalition attack by the US and Israel on Iran. Originally scheduled to transit through Dubai, the closure of the airport there has compelled them to await alternative travel arrangements.

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) reassured that the senior men’s team is safe and secure in India after the conclusion of their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 journey. The squad was supposed to return via Dubai, but their travel plans have been disrupted by the ongoing situation in the Middle East, affecting crucial transit routes.

Zimbabwe Cricket stated, "We are in contact with the ICC as they coordinate contingency measures for securing alternative travel routes for our team."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has implemented contingency plans and is collaborating with international carriers to facilitate new travel arrangements. ZC is maintaining constant communication with the ICC and local team management to ensure the squad's safe and prompt return.

As more information arises, further updates will be shared.

Previously, Zimbabwe's head coach Justin Sammons expressed concerns about the team's uncertain travel plans after concluding their Men’s T20 World Cup campaign with a five-wicket defeat against South Africa in their final Super Eights match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

In light of the situation in the Middle East, cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait have been experiencing attacks from Iranian forces, resulting in a complete suspension of airport operations. The Zimbabwe team was initially slated to return in three separate batches.

One squad member, Graeme Cremer, resides in Dubai with his wife Merna, an Emirates pilot, and their two children. Reports indicate that veteran leg-spinner Cremer is quite distressed by the ongoing strikes in Dubai.

During a press interaction following their last match, Sammons acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding their return but emphasized that the players maintained their focus on the game. "I would hope this doesn't affect their mindset. You believe the focus should remain on the game, yet the thoughts of how and when you will return home linger in the background,” he stated.