The T20 World Cup 2026 ended with thrilling matches, but the drama didn’t stop on the field. South African cricketers Quinton de Kock and David Miller voiced frustration over being stranded in Kolkata, while England managed to fly home swiftly after their semi-final defeat.
Due to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran, thousands of flights across the Gulf region were canceled, disrupting major transit routes. This left several teams, including South Africa and the West Indies, stuck in India with no clear plan from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
England, despite being eliminated later than South Africa and the West Indies, departed Mumbai on a chartered flight, sparking outrage. De Kock took to Instagram, questioning the ICC’s silence and favoritism: “Funny ICC, we have heard nothing! Meanwhile, England are leaving before us somehow?”
Miller echoed the sentiment, highlighting the lack of communication and fairness. “Funny that England gets eliminated after WI & SA and gets on a charter back home tonight. While WI & SA still wait for answers in Kolkata,” he posted.
West Indies coach Daren Sammy backed Miller, urging louder calls for accountability. Even former England captain Michael Vaughan criticized the ICC, stating that all teams should be treated equally, regardless of their influence at the ICC table.
The situation has sparked a debate about transparency and fairness in international cricket governance. While England’s swift departure raised eyebrows, the silence from the ICC has only deepened the frustration among stranded teams.
As of now, South Africa and the West Indies remain in limbo, waiting for updates. The incident has highlighted the need for better contingency planning and equal treatment for all nations, regardless of their cricketing clout.
The T20 World Cup 2026 may be over, but the off-field controversies continue to stir emotions and raise questions about the ICC’s priorities.
