Why Are Quinton de Kock and David Miller Calling Out the ICC Over Travel Issues?

ICC's Travel Controversy: De Kock and Miller Speak Out

New Delhi: Quinton de Kock and David Miller have voiced their concerns regarding the ICC's apparent preference for England's travel arrangements over those of South Africa and West Indies. Both teams are still awaiting their return home due to ongoing disruptions linked to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

England, having lost to India in the second semifinal, departed from Mumbai on a direct charter flight to London on Saturday evening. In contrast, South Africa and West Indies remain in the country.

West Indies faced elimination from the T20 World Cup after a five-wicket defeat to India at Eden Gardens, while South Africa's journey ended with a loss to New Zealand in the first semifinal in Kolkata.

Both teams are anticipated to travel together from Kolkata on a charter flight, although the exact departure time is yet to be confirmed, with expectations for a Sunday flight.

De Kock expressed his frustration on Instagram, stating, "Funny @icc, we have heard nothing! Meanwhile, England are leaving before us somehow? @westindies and @proteasmencsa are just in the dark! Strange how different teams have more pull than others."

Miller echoed similar sentiments, commenting on an ESPNcricinfo post, "Funny that England gets eliminated after WI & SA and gets on a charter back home tonight. While WI & SA still wait for answers in Kolkata."

Darren Sammy, the former West Indies captain and current head coach, also chimed in, urging Miller to speak up more loudly.

Michael Vaughan, a former England captain, questioned the ICC's decision to prioritize England's departure over that of West Indies and South Africa, stating, "So England got knocked out on Thurs, get a charter home today... That’s where the power is all wrong... All teams in this situation should be treated the same."

West Indies and South Africa are expected to first fly to Johannesburg before the Caribbean team continues to Antigua.

Additionally, some members of the South African contingent, including team management and players Keshav Maharaj, Jason Smith, and George Linde, will head to New Zealand on Sunday for a limited-overs tour starting March 15.

Meanwhile, India is set to face New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.