Star South African players Quinton de Kock and David Miller have launched a scathing attack on the International Cricket Council (ICC) over what they see as unequal treatment related to travel arrangements following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Desperation is simmering for stranded cricketers in India. Following their elimination from the tournament, the South African and West Indies teams are stranded in the country due to international airspace restrictions.
With the Proteas exiting in the semi-finals on March 4 and the West Indies exiting earlier during the Super 8 stage on March 1, England’s exit on March 5 is said to be an immediate departure.
According to reports, a special chartered flight arranged by the ICC will take the England team from Mumbai on Saturday evening.
The governing body has assured the South African and West Indies teams of similar assistance, but they are still awaiting confirmation regarding their departure schedule.
It is understood that both teams are currently based in Kolkata and the West Indies players may travel together on a flight expected to depart from Sunday, before continuing to Antigua.
The delay in communication prompted a sharp response from de Kock. In his Instagram stories, the wicketkeeper-batsman expressed his displeasure at the speed with which England’s tour was resolved.
“Funny @icc, we haven’t heard anything! Meanwhile, England are somehow out before us?” De Kock wrote. “@westindies and @proteasmencsa are in the dark
His teammate David Miller echoed the sentiment, expressing his frustration in the comments section of the social media post.
“It’s funny that England get knocked out after WI & SA and come back home tonight. WI & SA are still waiting for answers in Kolkata,” noted Miller.
The comment caught the attention of West Indies head coach Darren Sammy. The two-time T20 World Cup-winning former captain lent his support to Miller’s cut, responding with a pointed call for amplification: “@davidmillersa12 those behind please listen sir.”
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has also commented on this situation.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Wan suggested that influence in sports management should not dictate logistical support.
“So England knocked out on Thursday, get a charter home today… West Indies went out last Sunday and are still in Kolkata… SA is in the same position… That’s where the authority is wrong…” Vaughan posted. “In this situation all teams should be treated equally… You shouldn’t count because you are the most powerful in the ICC table… #JustSaying.”
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