Zimbabwe remain in India after T20 World Cup exit due to Middle East airspace closure

New Delhi: The Zimbabwe team, having concluded their World Cup campaign, is awaiting clarity on their return plans after the Dubai airport was closed due to escalating tensions in West Asia. Zimbabwe lost to South Africa in their final Super 8 match on Sunday. Even before this match, the team's progress beyond the Super 8 stage was confirmed, and the players' travel plans were ready.

Most of the players, led by Sikandar Raza, were scheduled to depart from Delhi in three separate phases starting Monday morning. Following the Super Eight final loss to South Africa, head coach Justin Sammons stated that those plans have been put on hold for the time being.

Zimbabwe all-rounder Graeme Creamer lives in Dubai, and his travel plans have been uncertain following the closure of major airports in the Middle East. The team had to take a connecting flight from Dubai. Head coach Justin Sammons said, "It's difficult for the players to ignore such a situation, but everyone's focus was still on the game."

Zimbabwe coach describes the atmosphere within the team

When asked about the current situation affecting the game, he said, "Everyone had it in mind that they had to leave for home the next morning (Monday). There were discussions within the team. But when we stepped on the field, our full focus was on the match." Sammons said the team hadn't been given any new information on Sunday. He added, "When we started the match, there were no updates." After that, my focus was on the game. I haven't received any information since then."

Due to the closure of Dubai airport, returning home via Addis Ababa-based Ethiopian Airlines may be an option for players and support staff. The International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Saturday that it was working on arranging alternative flights for players and officials returning from the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. This step is being taken in view of the disruption caused by the US attacks on Iran.

South Africa's coach also issued a statement on the matter.

South Africa is still in the tournament and is scheduled to play the semi-final in Kolkata on March 4. South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said that the conflict situation in West Asia has been a topic of discussion among the players. "It comes up in every conversation. You can't ignore it. However, we have managed to focus on the game," Conrad said. We have faith in our management and the ICC to resolve these issues. Right now our full focus is on the match against New Zealand on Wednesday in Kolkata.