The Indian cricket team’s return from the West Indies has been delayed due to the severe impact of Hurricane Beryl, which has escalated into an “extremely dangerous Category 4” storm. The entire contingent, including players, their families, support staff, and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials, are currently stranded at a beachfront property in Barbados. The hurricane has disrupted services at their hotel, and the airport has been closed, adding uncertainty to their departure.
A source close to the situation remarked, “Services are affected at the team hotel, just like everywhere else. With the airport shut due to the extremely dangerous hurricane, there is no clear timeline for departure. The BCCI is coordinating to ensure the entire contingent returns home safely.”
Hurricane warnings have been issued across the area, urging residents and tourists to stay indoors as winds exceeding 130 mph are expected to hit the region.
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According to CNN, “Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season, has intensified to an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph as it approaches the Windward Islands. Beryl is now the earliest Category 4 hurricane on record in the Atlantic Ocean and the only Category 4 storm ever recorded in June. Tropical storm-force winds are expected to reach the Windward Islands late Sunday or early Monday.”
#WATCH | Hurricane hits Barbados, airport shut down until further order. Curfew imposed in the city from 6 pm, all stores and offices shut down.
Team India and media from India stuck in Barbados as all flights cancelled. pic.twitter.com/j9OvGWp0Ot
— ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2024
In light of the situation, the Indian cricket board is exploring the possibility of arranging a charter flight directly from Barbados to New Delhi. However, this plan hinges on the reopening of the airport. BCCI secretary Jay Shah is overseeing the arrangements and remains with the team at their hotel.
As reported by CricketNext, there were plans for the victorious team to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon their return to India. However, these plans now depend on when they can safely depart from Barbados. Following the team’s T20 World Cup triumph, Prime Minister Modi spoke with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rahul Dravid, congratulating them on their achievement.
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The team was originally scheduled to leave on Monday, as Sunday was reserved as a backup day for the T20 World Cup final. Unfortunately, the hurricane has delayed their departure plans. The BCCI is committed to ensuring the safe return of the team and is actively monitoring the situation, making arrangements to deal with the unpredictable weather conditions caused by Hurricane Beryl.
