ICC Rushes To Backup Travel Plans As USA Strikes On Iran Impact T20 World Cup

ICC seeks alternate travel for T20 World Cup teams after USA-Iran tensions disrupted Gulf flights; safety is key, new routes via Europe, South Asia eyed.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said it is working on alternate travel arrangements for players and officials returning from the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, following the disruption caused by the United States of America (USA)’s strikes on Iran.

The tournament, which began on February 7, will conclude on March 8. Of the 20 participating teams, only eight teams had matches left. That includes co-hosts India and Sri Lanka, with the latter only needing to travel to Colombo in the special instance that Pakistan qualify for the semi-final or the final.

However, a large number of players, team officials, match referees, broadcast crews and event staff depend on Gulf transit hubs, particularly Dubai, for onward international connections. With flight operations in parts of the region affected, the governing body said it is coordinating with major airlines to secure alternative routes.

In a statement, the ICC stressed that “the safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC’s highest priority." It added that its travel, logistics and security teams have been mobilised and are working “around the clock to ensure that all stakeholders can return home safely, with minimal disruption."

The world body’s travel and logistics team is exploring connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs to minimise inconvenience. “The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops," the statement said.

A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated to assist with revised bookings and guidance.

“We would also urge fans who have travelled or were planning to travel for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 to monitor closely and adhere to advisories being issued and consider all factors before undertaking any further international travel," it said.

The governing body added that it will continue to issue updates as the situation evolves and remains committed to the “smooth and safe conclusion" of the tournament.

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