Indian Cricket Team Departs Barbados for Delhi After Weather-Induced Delay
Bridgetown, Barbados - The victorious Indian cricket team, crowned T20 World Cup champions in South Africa, finally bid farewell to Barbados on Wednesday after being stranded for three days due to Hurricane Beryl's wrath.
A chartered Air India flight, dubbed AIC24WC for Air India Champions 24 World Cup, lifted off from Grantley Adams International Airport at approximately 4:50 AM local time, carrying the jubilant squad, support staff, players' families, board officials, and media personnel. The Boeing 777 is scheduled to touch down in Delhi at 6:20 AM (IST) on Thursday.
The Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, took to Instagram to share a celebratory moment, posing with the coveted trophy aboard the aircraft. The team's triumph over South Africa in Saturday's thrilling final culminated in an outpouring of national pride, making their delayed departure bittersweet.
The Boeing 777, originating from New Jersey, made a stopover in Barbados at 2 AM local time. Airport staff lauded its imposing size, unprecedented at Grantley Adams International Airport, which resumed operations on Tuesday.
Arrangements for the charter flight were orchestrated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The team's return coincides with plans for a grand reception by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a victory parade in Mumbai to honor the champions who ended an 11-year trophy drought.
Initially scheduled to depart at 6 PM local time on Monday, the team's plans were disrupted by the late arrival of the aircraft due to the approaching hurricane. Beryl, now downgraded to a tropical storm, is currently headed towards Jamaica.
Air India's commitment to transporting the players back home was evident in their swift coordination with BCCI officials. A source close to the developments revealed that the flight accommodating the players was made available after adjusting for passengers booked on another Air India flight from Newark to Delhi.
The inconvenience faced by these passengers was reportedly met with unwavering support, with the understanding that ensuring the champions' return was of paramount importance.
