The Indian men’s national basketball team, currently stuck in Doha due to regional airspace closures amid West Asia tensions, might opt for a return journey through Riyadh if the situation persists. The team, in Doha for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, faces travel disruptions following the US-Israel attack on Iran. Sajid Rahman, the team manager, mentioned that Indian officials are exploring alternative routes in coordination with the Basketball Federation of India and the Indian embassy.
Rahman, also the General Secretary of the Assam Basketball Association, highlighted the challenges faced by the team, which had to cancel plans to travel to Lebanon for their upcoming match due to the sudden escalation in the region. The safety and security of the players are being ensured by the Indian embassy and the Basketball Federation of India, with the team currently staying put in their hotel in Doha since the incident.
In case the airspace restrictions persist, the Indian squad might have to undertake a longer journey by road covering several hundred kilometers before catching a flight from Riyadh. Rahman emphasized that while contingency plans are being considered, the primary aim is to ensure the team’s security during the extended travel. However, the alternative route via Riyadh will only be pursued if the current airspace closures continue.
Despite the disruption in their schedule, Rahman assured that the postponed match will not adversely affect the team’s campaign in the qualifiers. He mentioned that the match will be rescheduled, and any updates regarding the new date will be promptly communicated to the Basketball Federation of India once finalized.
