After a triumphant month-long T20 World Cup, the Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, finds their celebration in Barbados overshadowed by the impending threat of Hurricane Beryl. The Grade 3 hurricane is expected to hit the island, potentially trapping the team and causing significant flight disruptions.
Sources close to the team have informed IANS that the “Rohit-led side is currently stuck in their Hotel Hilton at Barbados.” The team was scheduled to depart Barbados on Monday at 11 AM local time (8:30 PM IST), with a planned route through New York and Dubai, eventually returning to India. However, the hurricane has raised serious concerns about flight delays and cancellations.
The Hilton, where the team is staying, is located near the coast, putting them at risk as Hurricane Beryl, a Category 3 storm, approaches. The hurricane is predicted to make landfall in Barbados at midnight on Sunday or early Monday morning.
Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced the closure of Grantley Adams International Airport by nighttime on Sunday in anticipation of the hurricane. This closure will prevent any flights from taking off or landing, further complicating the Indian team’s travel plans.
While it remains uncertain if the team will be able to board their scheduled flight, there is a possibility they could be stranded in Barbados for 36 to 48 hours due to the severe weather conditions.