The debate around the renaming of the iconic India-England Test series refuses to die down, with former India pacer Karsan Ghavri joining the chorus of criticism. The long-standing Pataudi Trophy, named after legendary India captain Mansoor Ali Khan “Tiger” Pataudi, was replaced earlier this year by the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, honouring James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.

The move sparked widespread backlash from fans and former cricketers, who felt it undermined Pataudi’s legacy. Karsan Ghavri did not mince words while expressing his displeasure. Drawing a sharp comparison, he suggested that if the Border-Gavaskar Trophy — the prestigious series between India and Australia — were renamed, it would trigger an uproar across the cricketing world.

“That is very wrong. The Pataudi Trophy has been there for years. Look at history — Australia vs. West Indies has always been the Frank Worrell Trophy, while India vs. Australia is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Try renaming that, and see how Sunil Gavaskar reacts. He would shake the entire country,” Karsan Ghavri said on Vicky Lalwani’s YouTube channel.

WATCH – Kane Williamson’s Embarrassing Handshake Goes Viral After Hundred 2025 Clash

The former pacer further criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not standing firm against the MCC and ECB. “Tiger’s name should never have been removed. The BCCI should’ve put its foot down,” he added.

Interestingly, Ghavri also questioned Tendulkar’s acceptance of the honor. “When they told Sachin that the trophy would be renamed after him and Anderson, he should’ve declined. He should have said Tiger Pataudi’s name is already there, don’t use mine,” Ghavri remarked.

Tendulkar, however, clarified that he was keen on preserving Pataudi’s legacy despite not being able to prevent the renaming. Speaking to Revsportz, the batting maestro revealed he had reached out to both the Pataudi family and key administrators.

“When I got to know, I immediately spoke to the family, then to Jay Shah, the BCCI, and the ECB. I stressed that Tiger’s name must remain associated with the series. Eventually, it was agreed that the winning captain would receive the Pataudi Medal of Excellence,” Tendulkar explained. “I have always respected my seniors, and I did everything I could to ensure the Pataudi legacy continues.”

WATCH – Kevin O’Brien Condemns Racist Attacks On Indians in Ireland, Calls Incidents “Hateful”

But Ghavri remained firm in his stance, arguing Tendulkar should have refused outright. “He should have said, don’t use my name. If you want, give a medal in my name but let the trophy remain Pataudi’s. This was about respecting our legends. Changing it was degrading to someone of Tiger’s stature,” he concluded.

The controversy highlights a larger debate: how cricket should balance honoring modern icons while safeguarding the legacies of pioneers who shaped the sport’s history.