England wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow is stuck in Dubai with his family. Flights from the United Arab Emirates have been temporarily halted following missile and drone attacks in the region, affecting thousands of passengers.
Situation worsened after missile attacks
According to reports, the security situation suddenly became critical after the attacks by Iran. These attacks are being seen as a response to the joint operation between Israel and America in Tehran. The situation became so sensitive that many international flights had to be cancelled, including Bairstow’s return flight. Bairstow, 36, had gone to Dubai with his family for a holiday, but the ongoing crisis has put his return plans on hold.
Appeal for help on social media
Clarifying the situation on social media platform X, Bairstow wrote, ‘Those who are saying that I am with the England Lions team, it is not so. I am in Dubai with my family. I’m trying to keep my family safe and get us out of here. He also tried to contact the airline publicly. In a post he wrote, ‘There has been no communication with us after the flight was cancelled. Can anyone please contact?’ Not only this, he tagged British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and asked, ‘Can you take us home?’ Earlier on Monday, media reports said that Bairstow had reached UAE as the coach of the England Lions team and was stuck. However, now Bairstow himself has denied the coach’s statement.
Changes in UK travel advisory
In view of the increasing danger, Britain’s Foreign Office has updated its travel advisory for UAE. The advisory said, ‘Due to reports of missile attacks, British nationals present in the UAE should immediately evacuate to a safe place, avoid unnecessary travel and follow the instructions of local authorities.’ After this warning, the anxiety among the foreign citizens present there has increased further.
Cricket program also affected
Regional instability has also affected cricket programmes. England Lions have canceled their scheduled match against Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi. At the same time, the England women’s team has postponed its training camp. The England men’s team, which has returned from the T20 World Cup in India, is also keeping an eye on the situation as their journey was to pass through Dubai. At the same time, Bairstow’s concern is clear and he wants the safety of the family. In the current situation, their priority is to return home safely. Until flight services are restored, he will remain stranded in Dubai.