Members of the West Indies men’s cricket team have begun leaving India after their return trip to the Caribbean was delayed for several days due to disruptions linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

According to Cricket West Indies, the charter flight arranged by the International Cricket Council to transport the West Indies and the South Africa men’s cricket team was repeatedly delayed, leaving players and support staff waiting in India after completing their matches.

The delays were linked to aviation disruptions following Iranian attacks on Gulf neighbours targeting American military bases and interests, after US and Israeli bombing reportedly killed more than 500 people, including Iran’s long-standing leader Ali Khamenei.

Cricket West Indies said the continued uncertainty surrounding the charter flight arrangements made it increasingly difficult for the team to remain in India while awaiting travel confirmation.

After nine days without a confirmed departure, the regional governing body informed the ICC that it would begin securing commercial travel for players and staff in order to facilitate their return.

The extended delay caused frustration among members of the team and staff.

Head coach Daren Sammy also appeared to express his frustration in a post on the social media platform X, writing: “I just wanna go home.”