Mumbai, India – June 16, 2025 – In a significant turn of events, legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has reportedly played a pivotal role in persuading the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to ensure the legacy of the Pataudi Trophy continues. This comes after the ECB’s decision to rename the India-England Test series trophy to the ‘Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’ drew considerable backlash from the cricketing fraternity and fans alike.
The Original Controversy: Retiring the Pataudi Trophy
The Pataudi Trophy, instituted in 2007 by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), was awarded to the winner of Test series between India and England played in England. It honored the Pataudi family’s immense contribution to cricket, specifically Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, who played for both England and India, and his son, Mansoor Ali Khan ‘Tiger’ Pataudi, a celebrated Indian captain.
Earlier this year, the ECB reportedly informed the Pataudi family of their decision to retire the trophy and introduce the ‘Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’ for the upcoming Test series starting June 20. While the move aimed to acknowledge the modern-day contributions of two cricketing giants, James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar, it was widely criticized for seemingly disregarding a rich historical legacy.
Tendulkar’s “Change of Heart” Appeal
According to reports from various media outlets, including Cricbuzz, Sachin Tendulkar himself stepped in to advocate for the continuation of the Pataudi legacy. The ‘Master Blaster’ is understood to have engaged in discussions with senior officials from both the BCCI and the ECB, expressing his desire for the Pataudi name to remain associated with the prestigious series.
Tendulkar’s intervention is believed to have been a crucial factor in prompting a reconsideration by the boards. His appeal, coupled with reported involvement from ICC Chairman and former BCCI secretary Jay Shah, seems to have resonated with the cricketing authorities.
A Compromise: Pataudi Legacy to Live On Through Medallion
While the upcoming India-England Test series is still expected to officially be played for the ‘Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy,’ reports suggest a compromise has been reached to honor the Pataudi family. It is now likely that a medallion in the name of the late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi will be presented to the winning captain of the series. This move aims to ensure that the historical significance and contribution of the Pataudi family are not forgotten.
An ECB official reportedly confirmed to Cricbuzz that “Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series.” The precise details of this new arrangement are still being finalized.
Postponement of Trophy Unveiling
The official unveiling of the ‘Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy’ was originally scheduled for June 14, coinciding with the fourth day of the World Test Championship final. However, this event was respectfully postponed in light of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, which resulted in significant loss of life. Both the BCCI and ECB are now looking for a new, suitable date for the trophy’s formal presentation.
This development highlights the immense influence of cricketing stalwarts like Sachin Tendulkar in preserving the sport’s history and heritage, ensuring that while new eras are celebrated, the foundations laid by past legends are not overlooked.
