Indian Men’s Cricket Team Stranded in Barbados After T20 World Cup Win

After winning the T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian men’s cricket team is stranded in Barbados because of Hurricane Beryl. The hurricane hit Barbados with strong winds and flooding on Monday, forcing 400 people into shelters. As it moved to Carriacou Island, it became even more dangerous, with winds reaching 150mph and posing serious threats to life, nearly reaching Category 5 intensity.

Originally scheduled to return home on a charter flight, the team has been grounded as airports shut down since Sunday evening. Jay Shah, secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, confirmed their situation, stating that plans for their return and celebration would only proceed once travel options are clear.

Despite being stranded, the team basks in the glory of their victory, marking India’s fourth T20 World Cup win following triumphs in 1983, 2007, and 2011, with runner-up positions in 2003, 2014, and 2023. Captain Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in India’s cricketing depth, highlighting the potential to field multiple competitive teams from their robust bench strength.

The historic final against South Africa saw both Sharma and Virat Kohli, top scorers in T20 internationals with over 4,000 runs each, announce their retirement from the format. Kohli’s 76 runs from 59 balls and Sharma’s leadership helped secure a gripping seven-run victory, marking a poignant conclusion to their T20 careers amidst shared triumph.

The team’s unexpected extended stay in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl juxtaposes the jubilation of their victory, encapsulating the unpredictable nature of sports and life’s unforeseen challenges.