T20 World Cup 2026: ICC activates contingency plans amid Middle East tensions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has said that it is keenly monitoring the “evolving situation in the Middle East” and has activated “comprehensive contingency plans to safeguard the travel, logistics and well-being of all stakeholders” involved in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which is currently underway in India and Sri Lanka. The tournament concludes on March 8.

Even though the Middle East crisis casts no direct impact on the conduction of the tournament in the subcontinent, the apex body acknowledged that a considerable number of personnel and staff – players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event team – depend on Gulf hub airports, particularly Dubai, as transit points for travel to their respective home countries following the conclusion of the ongoing global event.

“The safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC’s highest priority. We have already mobilised our travel, logistics and security teams, and are working around the clock to ensure that all stakeholders can return home safely, with minimal disruption,” an ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying in a release.

“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,” he added.

It is understood that the ICC travel and logistics team is working to identify alternative routes, including connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs. A special travel support desk has also been set up to provide immediate assistance where necessary.

“The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated. The ICC will continue to issue updates as the situation evolves and remains committed to the smooth and safe conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,” the release stated.

 

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