The jubilant Indian cricket team, fresh off their World Cup Champions, are finally set to depart Barbados. Their celebratory stay was unexpectedly extended due to Hurricane Beryl, a powerful storm that swept through the region.

Stranded by the Storm:

For the past two days, the team, support staff, and their families have been unable to leave the island. Flight cancellations caused by the hurricane resulted in a temporary lockdown of Barbados, keeping everyone safely sheltered at their hotel.

Clearing Skies and a Hero’s Welcome:

Thankfully, the situation is improving. Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) is expected to reopen later today, allowing for air traffic to resume. Reports suggest minimal damage to the airport from the hurricane.

The BCCI, the Indian cricket board, explored chartering a private flight to expedite the team’s return. However, with the airport reopening soon, this may no longer be necessary.

A Potential Prime Ministerial Meeting:

Adding to the excitement, whispers suggest the team might be greeted by the Prime Minister himself upon their arrival in New Delhi. This would be a fitting tribute to their incredible achievement.

Meanwhile, in Other Cricket News:

• The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has offered the head coach position to Lakshmipathy Balaji for the upcoming domestic season. However, his acceptance remains uncertain.
• BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed a new head coach and support staff will take over for the Indian team starting with the Sri Lanka series later this month.
• Unlike their Indian counterparts, the South African team, who lost to India in the finals, managed to leave Barbados before the hurricane arrived.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Indian cricket team‘s return and any official confirmation about their potential meeting with the Prime Minister.