England Rugby Stars Stranded in Dubai Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Ellie Kildunne and Sadia Kabeya, two prominent players from England’s Women’s World Cup-winning team, find themselves stranded in Dubai due to the escalating conflict between Israel and the United States with Iran. Kildunne, who played a crucial role in the Red Roses' triumph at Twickenham last summer, will miss the Harlequins' home match against Saracens on Saturday. Similarly, Kabeya will be absent for Loughborough Lightning's fixture against Sale. A joint statement from the Rugby Football Union, Premiership Women’s Rugby, Harlequins, and Loughborough Lightning confirmed that both athletes are in touch with their respective clubs and the RFU, but their chances of returning home from their Dubai trip remain uncertain. The statement read: "During the reserve Premiership Women’s Rugby week, Ellie Kildunne and Sadia Kabeya travelled to Dubai for a short break. Due to ongoing airspace disruption, they have been unable to return to England as planned and will therefore not play in PWR games this weekend. Both players have registered their presence with the UK government to receive official updates and guidance." Both players continue to communicate with the RFU, PWR, and their clubs, ensuring they are supported during this challenging time. Efforts to assist Britons trapped in the region are ongoing, with the first government charter flight returning to the UK early on Friday. Passengers have reported dire conditions, including sleeping in car parks amid the conflict's sounds. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways announced a limited resumption of flights to the UK until March 19. In light of the situation, the England and Wales Cricket Board relocated the women’s cricket team's warm-weather training camp to South Africa, scrapping plans for their trip to the UAE due to safety concerns.

Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-03-06