ICC rejects claims of ‘bias’ over World Cup travel

The International Cricket Council has defended its attempts to fly teams home from the T20 World Cup and has “categorically” refuted “any claims of bias”.

West Indies remain in Kolkata a week after they were eliminated from the tournament amid travel disruption caused by the conflict across the Middle East, while South Africa, who were knocked out on Wednesday, are also still in India.

England, who lost their semi-final on Thursday, flew home on Saturday, leading to criticism from West Indies and the Proteas. Former England captain Michael Vaughan said “the power is all wrong”.

“All teams in this situation should be treated the same,” he said. “Just because you are more powerful at the ICC table shouldn’t count.”

But an ICC spokesperson said: “Decisions on departure sequencing are being driven solely by airspace availability, aircraft routing permissions, visa requirements and operational safety considerations.

Windies coach Daren Sammy has been vocal on social media throughout the issue. On Thursday he posted “I just wanna go home”. “At least an update, tell us something,” he also said.

After England’s departure was confirmed, South Africa batter Quinton de Kock said “Funny, we have heard nothing! Strange how different teams have more pull than others.”

West Indies, South Africa and England were all scheduled to depart India via the Gulf – a situation made difficult by the Iran war and subsequent air strikes across the region.

England departed via Egypt on Saturday. West Indies and South Africa will finally travel together on a chartered plane on Monday.

“The safety and well-being of players, support staff, officials, and our own workforce remain our absolute priority as we respond to the evolving situation affecting air travel across parts of the Middle East,” the ICC said.

“The current disruption to multiple airspaces has created a highly complex and fast-moving logistical challenge.

“For instance, the England team and their staff were able to fly out from Mumbai without restriction due to the route’s airspace being unaffected and flights operating as usual.

“The ICC categorically refutes any claims of bias in this or other instances, and has been fully accommodating of specific demands and conditions put forth by teams.

“The ICC’s logistics and events teams have been working continuously with governments, aviation authorities, airlines and charter providers to secure safe travel options for all participating teams and tournament personnel.