London, June 6: The upcoming five-match Test series between England and India, beginning June 20 at Headingley, will mark the beginning of a new era in the cricketing rivalry between the two nations — one that will now be contested for the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy, a newly introduced honour that pays tribute to two of the most iconic figures in modern Test cricket: Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson.
But why this name change? Why Tendulkar and Anderson?
The decision to name the trophy after Tendulkar and Anderson stems from their extraordinary contributions to the game, their enduring legacies, and the unique on-field battles they shared across 14 memorable Test matches.
The batting maestro and the swing king
Sachin Tendulkar, who played 200 Tests for India between 1989 and 2013, remains the highest run-scorer in the history of Test cricket with an astounding 15,921 runs. Widely regarded as the greatest batter of the modern era, the “Little Master” was revered not just for his records but also for his influence in popularising cricket across generations.
James Anderson, on the other hand, is the most successful pace bowler in Test history. With 704 wickets to his name, he holds the record for the most Test wickets by any fast bowler and is England’s all-time leading wicket-taker. His longevity, skill, and adaptability over two decades have made him a symbol of excellence in the art of swing bowling.
Interestingly, Anderson dismissed Tendulkar nine times in Test cricket — more than any other bowler — making their duel a legendary subplot in the England-India narrative.
A fitting tribute
The move to rename the series is similar to last year’s introduction of the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, contested between New Zealand and England, in honour of Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe.
Previously, Test series played in England between the two nations were contested for the Pataudi Trophy, named after the illustrious Pataudi family. The Nawab of Pataudi Sr. represented both England and India during the 1930s and 40s, while his son, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, was one of India’s most charismatic captains in the 1960s and 70s. England were the final holders of the Pataudi Trophy, following a drawn series (2-2) in 2021–22 that was disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has informed the Pataudi family of the change. However, they have not issued an official statement regarding the matter.
In India, meanwhile, the Anthony de Mello Trophy — named after a pioneering Indian cricket administrator — continues to be awarded during Test series played on Indian soil. It remains unclear whether the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy will eventually replace the De Mello Trophy as well.
Anderson’s ongoing chapter
While Tendulkar retired from international cricket in 2013, Anderson has only just announced that the upcoming summer will be his final one in England colours. He is currently playing county cricket for Lancashire and has signed a one-year extension with the club. Following his retirement from international duties, he is also set to serve as a bowling consultant for England.
Legacy meets rivalry
The renaming of the series as the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy adds a layer of history and emotion to one of cricket’s most compelling modern rivalries. It is not only a nod to two of the game’s greats but also a reminder of the intense, high-quality cricket that has defined England-India encounters over the decades.
As the countdown to the series opener in Leeds begins, players and fans alike will now have something more than just wins and losses to play for — they will be battling for a trophy that represents cricketing greatness. (Agencies)
