The upcoming Champions Trophy in 2025 is scheduled to be held in Pakistan next year. But there is much doubt regarding India's participation, and with the men in blue unlikely to agree to play in Pakistan, the tournament's format and schedule remain uncertain.

The media has speculated extensively about the possibility of moving India's matches to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Even the final may be removed from Pakistan if India qualifies.

However, the lack of clarity has created problems and challenges for other cricket boards, and the ECB, in particular, has expressed concerns.

Stated that playing the Champions Trophy without India or Pakistan would not be financially viable, Richard Gould, the ECB chief executive, said, “(Play) without India? I wouldn't have thought so. If you play the Champions Trophy without India or Pakistan, the broadcast rights aren't there, and we need to protect them.

"It would not be in cricket's interests for India not to be playing in the Champions Trophy. We're all waiting to understand whether India are going to travel," said Gould in a chat with belfasttelegraph.

"That's the key. I know Pakistan are expecting India to travel but there are lots of different alternatives and contingencies available if that doesn't happen.

"Hopefully we can have the fullest possible competition in Pakistan, this is a big moment for the country. If that's not possible, we know there are options available.

"There's geopolitics and then there's cricketing geopolitics. I think they'll find a way. They have to find a way. There are always security concerns in this part of the world when those two countries play each other. That will probably drive the key decisions."

Teams in 2025 Champions Trophy:

Pakistan

Afghanistan

Australia

Bangladesh

England

India

New Zealand

South Africa

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