Jonny Bairstow, the renowned England cricketer, has urgently requested assistance after getting stranded in the United Arab Emirates with the England Lions squad due to tensions in the Middle East. Bairstow, who is in Abu Dhabi as part of a coaching role alongside former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, posted on social media as the situation in the worsened.
The 25-member England Lions squad, including players and support staff, was scheduled to play the Pakistan Shaheens in Dubai on Sunday. However, the match was cancelled due to the ongoing conflict. The two teams had already completed in one match.
@emirates we haven’t had any communication post flight getting cancelled.
Tried the lines of communication but nothing. Could someone please be in contact.— Jonny Bairstow (@jbairstow21) March 1, 2026
The situation deteriorated after US and Israeli forces launched a strike against Iran on, claiming to target Iran’s nuclear weapons program, which resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran carried out missile and drone strikes on Israel and other Middle Eastern countries, with reports of loud explosions near Dubai and Doha.
As the UAE has closed its airspace, the England Lions squad, along with the coaching staff, was unable to leave. Family members in the UK are anxiously waiting for updates.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the developing situation and is in contact with authorities.
“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our teams and staff. We are in communication with security professionals and the government regarding the ongoing situation in the Middle East and are adhering to official guidance,” ECB said in a statement.
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