In a moment that blended the past, present, and future of Test cricket, legends Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson came together to unveil the newly christened Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, which will now serve as the ultimate prize in bilateral Test series between India and England. This move officially replaces the Pataudi Trophy, which had symbolised the storied rivalry since 2007. The two cricketing giants, who spent decades on opposite sides of fierce battles, now find themselves eternally linked through a trophy that pays homage to their contributions to the red-ball game.
The trophy itself is a visual tribute to the greatness of both players, featuring a striking depiction of Tendulkar’s signature cover drive and Anderson’s elegant bowling action. Their engraved autographs add a personal touch, honouring two careers that shaped modern Test cricket. In a joint statement from the ECB and BCCI, it was confirmed that the trophy will be contested in all future Test series between the two countries, regardless of the venue.
Previously, England hosted the Pataudi Trophy while India’s home series was played for the Anthony De Mello Trophy. Importantly, the Pataudi legacy isn’t being forgotten. A new Pataudi Medal will now be presented to the winning captain at the end of each India–England Test series, starting with the 2025 edition.
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Sachin Tendulkar, in a conversation with RevSportz, highlighted how preserving the Pataudi family’s connection was important. He acknowledged the efforts of key figures, including BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, in ensuring the family’s name remained woven into the India–England Test fabric.
Reflecting on the honour, Tendulkar said, “Test cricket embodies life. You prepare, you fight, you fail, you learn, and you rise again. That’s what makes it the purest form of the game. My journey in cricket was built on the foundation of this format. To now share this recognition with James, a fierce competitor and a gentleman, is humbling. I hope this trophy continues to inspire generations to value and cherish the unique challenges of Test cricket.”
Two cricketing icons. One special recognition 🤝
The legendary Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson pose alongside the new 𝘼𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣-𝙏𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙡𝙠𝙖𝙧 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙝𝙮 🏆#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND | @sachin_rt | @jimmy9 pic.twitter.com/4lDCFTud21
— BCCI (@BCCI) June 19, 2025
Anderson too was visibly moved, stating, “This is a proud moment for me and my family. India versus England has always been an electric rivalry, filled with drama, intensity, and unforgettable battles. To be remembered alongside someone like Sachin, whom I bowled to and learned from, is a true honour. The upcoming series promises to be another memorable chapter.”
Both players have enjoyed remarkable records in this rivalry. Anderson, a master of seam and swing, has taken 149 wickets in 39 Tests against India at an average of 25.47, including six five-wicket hauls. Tendulkar, on the other hand, was a thorn in England’s side for years, scoring 2,535 runs in 32 Tests, averaging over 51, with his 193 at Headingley in 2002 remaining a classic.
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The inaugural battle for the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy begins on June 20, marking the start of the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle. A new-look Indian side, led by Shubman Gill, will face a formidable English unit captained by Ben Stokes. With senior players like Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, and Rohit Sharma having stepped away from Test cricket, it’s a chance for the next generation to carve their names into cricketing folklore.
