'Just in the dark': Quinton de Kock slams ICC as England leave but SA, WI remain stuck

South Africa wicket-keeper-batter Quinton de Kock has launched a scathing attack on the International Cricket Council, accusing the governing body of favouritism after England’s squad secured an early flight home while South Africa and the West Indies remain stranded in India.

The three teams were all eliminated from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 within days of each other, yet their departures have been staggered by contrasting travel arrangements. England, beaten by India in Thursday’s second semi-final, are scheduled to fly to London on Saturday, barely 48 hours after their exit. South Africa and the West Indies, ousted last weekend, have been forced to wait almost a week for ICC-organised charter flights.

De Kock vented his frustration on Instagram Stories, writing: “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.”

The West Indies’ campaign ended on 1 March with a Super Eight defeat to hosts India at Eden Gardens, after which the squad remained in Kolkata. South Africa’s tournament concluded with a semi-final loss to New Zealand on the same day, yet both teams have received no confirmed departure times. According to ESPNcricinfo, the earliest either side can expect to leave is Sunday, when charters to Johannesburg will finally become available. From Johannesburg, the Caribbean players will connect to Antigua.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan echoed de Kock’s concerns, posting on X: “So England got knocked out on Thurs, get a charter home today .. West Indies go out last Sunday and are still in Kolkata .. SA in the same position .. That’s where the power is all wrong .. All teams in this situation should be treated the same .. just because you are more powerful at the ICC table shouldn’t count .. #JustSaying.”

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy underscored the squad’s irritation by tweeting “Day 6” on Friday, marking the length of their unplanned stay in Kolkata. South Africa, now in their third day of limbo, have similarly received no detailed itinerary from tournament organisers.

An ICC spokesperson, speaking to ESPNcricinfo, indicated that airspace restrictions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran have limited available charter slots. The body insists it is working to secure flights for all remaining squads, but could not guarantee simultaneous departures.

Zimbabwe, who played their final group match against South Africa on 1 March in New Delhi, experienced comparable delays before eventually departing on 4 March, suggesting the issue has affected multiple teams throughout the event.

With players growing restless and questions mounting over transparency, the ICC faces increasing pressure to explain why some boards appear able to fast-track travel arrangements while others are left waiting.