India’s cricket team, fresh off their thrilling T20 World Cup victory, finally landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi in the early hours of Thursday. The journey back was marred by delays due to Hurricane Beryl, but the team’s triumphant return made it all worthwhile.

The Journey home

After their pulse-pounding seven-run victory against South Africa at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, the Indian cricket team, their families, coaching staff, and BCCI officials found themselves stranded due to Hurricane Beryl. The hurricane led to a shutdown of airports in the Caribbean, leaving the team in Bridgetown for five additional days.

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The BCCI sprang into action, arranging a special charter flight once the airport reopened. This flight was crucial to bring the World Cup heroes back home safely and swiftly.

Triumphant arrival in New Delhi

The special charter flight, dubbed AIC24WC — Air India Champions 24 World Cup — took off from Barbados at 4:50 am local time on Wednesday and touched down in New Delhi at 6 am IST on Thursday after a grueling 16-hour non-stop journey. The energy on board was electric, and upon landing, the team was met with a hero’s welcome.

Hundreds of supporters, undeterred by the early hour and the weather, gathered at the airport to welcome their champions. They held placards, waved the national flag, and chanted “India, India!” as the players emerged from the arrivals area, their gold medals gleaming.

Inside the Long Flight

The 16-hour flight from Barbados to New Delhi was filled with camaraderie and celebration. The BCCI shared glimpses of the journey, showcasing the high spirits of the players. Special announcements were made by the Air India pilot to thank the team for ending India’s long wait for a World Cup victory.

Midway through the journey, a heartfelt announcement was made to honor head coach Rahul Dravid, who will no longer be part of the Indian dressing room. This gesture was a poignant reminder of the contributions and dedication of the support staff.

Players’ interaction during the flight

Despite the long journey, the players, including captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, and star batter Suryakumar Yadav, mingled with their families and support staff. They made their way into the economy section to chat with others, reflecting the unity and familial atmosphere within the team.

Player of the tournament, Jasprit Bumrah, was even seen babysitting his son Angad, ensuring the long flight was enjoyable for everyone. This sense of camaraderie and personal connection was evident throughout the journey.

BCCI’s gesture to Journalists

In a special gesture, the BCCI also included 20-odd Indian sports journalists who had been stranded in the Caribbean. These journalists were given the opportunity to hold the T20 World Cup trophy and take photos, marking a memorable moment for the media personnel.

Upon landing, the team proceeded to the ITC Maurya Hotel, where a grand welcome awaited them. Special preparations had been made to ensure the team’s comfort and to celebrate their victory.

Meeting with PM Narendra Modi

A significant highlight of the team’s return was their scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This meeting was a formal recognition of the team’s achievement, celebrating their dedication and skill on the global stage.

Roadshow in Mumbai

Following their time in Delhi, the team was set to fly to Mumbai for a grand roadshow. This victory parade was planned from Marine Drive to Wankhede Stadium, with an expected massive turnout of fans eager to celebrate their cricketing heroes.

The 1 km victory parade was organized to allow fans to cheer for the team and celebrate their victory. The route from Nariman Point to Wankhede Stadium was lined with fans, waving flags and expressing their pride.