Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE’s national cricket team, the Chevrons, have been delayed in returning home from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup following the closure of sections of airspace across the Middle East.
The team had been scheduled to depart Delhi this Monday after completing their Super Eight campaign. However, flight routes through major Gulf transit hubs have been disrupted after regional airspace restrictions were imposed amid ongoing conflict, forcing airlines to cancel or reroute a number of international services.
The Chevrons were expected to connect through Middle Eastern transit points before continuing to Harare. Instead, the squad remains in India while officials explore alternative travel arrangements.
Head coach Justin Sammons said the developments unfolded rapidly, leaving the delegation awaiting confirmation of revised departure plans.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is coordinating with airlines and relevant authorities to facilitate safe passage for affected teams and tournament personnel.
Airspace closures in the region have had a wider impact on global aviation, particularly on routes linking Asia, Africa and Europe. Airlines have adopted longer flight paths or suspended services entirely, resulting in delays across multiple destinations.
Despite the logistical setback, team officials indicated that morale remains steady following Zimbabwe’s progression to the Super Eight stage of the tournament.
The Chevrons are expected to return to Harare once new flight clearances are secured.
