NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Residents in India's northern states woke up to another day of poor air quality on Tuesday, as a layer of dense fog shrouded most of the region and pollution in the capital Delhi remained severe.

Parts of South Asia are filled with toxic smog, hurting not only residents' health, but the economies of India and Pakistan.

Toxic smog engulfed much of northern India on Monday and pollution readings in New Delhi hit their highest of this pre-winter season, after dense fog overnight.

In a recent interview with a local TV channel, former fast bowler and renowned cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the "Rawalpindi Express," expressed his belief that back-channel negotiations between Pakistan and India will eventually lead to India’s participation in the Champions Trophy, despite the current uncertainties.

With India unwilling to send its team across the border over security concerns, the onus is on the ICC to help the boards establish a middle ground

A top Pakistan Cricket Board official is ready to talk to India to ease concerns about playing in the 2025 Champions Trophy.