Pataudi Trophy Will Now Be Called Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy

London, UK – June 5, 2025 – In a significant departure from tradition, the Test series contested between England and India on English soil will no longer be played for the Pataudi Trophy. Instead, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced that the coveted prize will henceforth be known as the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy, honouring two of modern cricket’s most iconic figures, Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson.

The decision, which has been formally communicated to the Pataudi family, marks a new era for one of cricket’s most anticipated bilateral contests. The inaugural Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy will be unveiled ahead of the five-match series, set to commence at Headingley on June 20.

The Pataudi Trophy, introduced in 2007 to commemorate 75 years of Test cricket between the two nations, was named after the illustrious Pataudi cricketing family. Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi famously played for both England and India, while his son, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, known as ‘Tiger’, captained India with distinction in the 1960s and 70s. The move to retire this historic name has drawn mixed reactions, with some former players and commentators expressing dismay at the departure from a legacy spanning generations.

However, the ECB’s rationale appears to be a desire to celebrate more contemporary legends who have defined the India-England rivalry in the 21st century.

Sachin Tendulkar, India’s ‘Little Master’, stands as the highest run-scorer in Test history with an astonishing 15,921 runs from 200 matches. James Anderson, England’s most prolific fast bowler, boasts an incredible 704 Test wickets. Their numerous enthralling battles on the field, including Anderson dismissing Tendulkar nine times in Tests, have become part of cricketing folklore.