The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, just five months away, has yet to confirm its host country. Pakistan is the official host, but concerns over India’s participation have left the organizers in limbo. Pakistan is eager for India to take part, as their involvement is crucial for the tournament’s success.

Due to the strained political relations between India and Pakistan, the two countries have not engaged in any bilateral cricket matches since the 2008 Asia Cup. Bilateral ties were further severed following Pakistan’s 2012-2013 tour of India, leading to an unpleasant situation between the neighboring nations.

In 2023, the Asia Cup was scheduled to be held in Pakistan, but the BCCI declined to send its team. As a result, the tournament adopted a hybrid format, with some matches played in Pakistan and the semifinals and final hosted in Sri Lanka.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly stated that they will not concede to the demands regarding the tournament. has tasked the ICC with persuading the BCCI to send the Indian national team to Pakistan, but this may prove challenging. If a resolution is not found soon, there is a risk that India could withdraw from the tournament.

India’s potential withdrawal from the tournament could lead to financial losses for both the ICC and the PCB. Additionally, the PCB fears that other cricket boards may also refuse to play in Pakistan if India pulls out of the ICC event. However, amidst these growing concerns, the PCB has received some reassuring news – the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) CEO, Richard Gould, has expressed support for the PCB’s bid to host the tournament in Pakistan.

“A lot of effort is being put into ensuring that Pakistan will host the Champions Trophy the following year,” Gould remarked. “Especially from the ECB and PCB.”

While the official schedule has not been released, the tournament is tentatively planned for February or March of next year.