The ongoing war involving the US, Israel, and Iran has people worried about travel chaos and what it could mean for IPL 2026, which kicks off on March 28. With rumours swirling, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla stepped up to clear the air. He said the tournament will go ahead as planned, though they’re keeping a close eye on how things unfold.
Player availability could be an issue for IPL 2026
The conflict between the three countries also meant that the travel plans of teams like South Africa, West Indies and England after their T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns were done as Dubai and Doha airspaces were closed. It is understood that the English players departed from India, followed by the Proteas and the Caribbean cricketers. Nevertheless, the Proteas and Caribbean cricketers are reportedly yet to reach home. On March 11, Wednesday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the schedule of the first 20 games of IPL 2026. While the elections in states like Tamil Nadu, Assam and West Bengal were kept in mind, the escalating situation in West Asia were also on their minds.
One of the team officials told PTI the below:
“There was a substantial delay in departure of West Indies and South Africa players. It would be a tough task to get them back to India on time. Plus, the airfares have gone up substantially due to the war in West Asia.”
Nevertheless, BCCI Vice-Pesident Rajeev Shukla assured that the 10-team event will go as per schedule, saying, as quoted by DNA:
“IPL will be held as per schedule. We have released the schedule for 20 matches. The schedule for remaining matches will be released after the Election Commission announces the dates for states going to the election.”
CSK owner expecting no delay from their key overseas players
With the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) having a host of overseas players in their ranks, franchise owner Kasi Viswanathan stated that he is expecting no delays from the likes of Akeal Hosein and Dewald Brevis. He said, as quoted by NDTV:
“We are expecting no delays from their end.”
If the travel disruptions keeps going, the BCCI might have to alter their dates quickly. Should players face delay coming to India, it will impact the playing combination of several teams, especially their respective pre-season camps.
