A semifinal awaits, even as uncertainty spreads

Should cricket be played in a time of war? This isn’t about casual games, but major events like the men’s T20 World Cup. While the tournament cannot influence events in the Middle East, canceling it is impractical—semifinalists, sponsors, and broadcasters would not accept it.

Yet, should cricket ignore the real world? Sport often turns away from events beyond its boundaries, risking being seen as unserious.

So, what is cricket doing? The ICC issued a statement titled “ICC activates contingency plans to support stakeholder safety and well-being amid tensions in the Middle East.” They are monitoring the situation and have activated contingency plans for travel, logistics, and well-being. The ICC is working with airlines to secure alternative routes and has a travel support desk active.

But this doesn’t reveal cricket’s stance on the crisis. On the field, during South Africa’s Super Eights match against Zimbabwe in Delhi, there was no acknowledgment—no black armbands, moment of silence, or symbolic gestures. Perhaps few would have noticed in a largely inconsequential match.

South Africa had already qualified for the semifinals. Zimbabwe were heading home, but travel has become complicated due to airspace closures in the region. For Zimbabwean player Graeme Cremer, it’s personal—his wife is a first officer with a UAE airline. Were the players distracted? Zimbabwe batting coach Justin Sammons said, “I would hope not. But I’m sure it’s in the back of everyone’s minds.”

South Africa coach Shukri Conrad noted, “It comes up in every conversation. We’ve just got to try and nail our yorkers and hit the bad ball for six amidst all of that.”

Consider the ICC staff based in Dubai and Zimbabwean supporters, who were scheduled to return via Ethiopia on Monday.

Despite the context, a crowd of 24,500 attended the dead rubber. A Zimbabwe win could have altered semifinal scenarios if West Indies beat India heavily later, but South Africa won by five wickets with 13 balls to spare.

Sikandar Raza’s 73 off 43 balls lifted Zimbabwe to 153/7. South Africa chased it down with contributions from Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, and David Miller, remaining unbeaten in the tournament.

South Africa now face New Zealand at Eden Gardens on Wednesday in the semifinal. War or no war, the game goes on—hoping sense prevails by then.