India-England Test Series to Be Renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in Tribute to Legends
In a historic move that celebrates the enduring legacy of two cricketing greats, the India-England Test series will now be contested for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, named in honour of James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.
The decision was jointly announced by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s. According to ESPNcricinfo, the trophy will be formally unveiled at the iconic venue by Anderson and Tendulkar themselves—a moment that promises to be both emotional and symbolic. This change comes as India and England gear up for the start of the new WTC cycle, with a five-Test series beginning on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.
A Tribute to Test Cricket’s Icons
James Anderson, who bid farewell to international cricket in July 2024, retires as the most prolific fast bowler in Test history, with a record 188 appearances. His unparalleled control, longevity, and competitive spirit made him a mainstay of the England bowling attack for over two decades.
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest batters the sport has ever seen, retired in 2013 after playing a then-unprecedented 200 Test matches. His technical brilliance and batting milestones remain benchmarks in world cricket. Together, the pair represent excellence, resilience, and a deep reverence for the art of Test cricket—qualities the new trophy is designed to honour.
Bringing Uniformity to a Storied Rivalry
Until now, bilateral Test series between India and England were contested under different titles depending on the host nation. In England, it was the Pataudi Trophy, named after former India captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. In India, the contest was for the Anthony de Mello Trophy, named after one of the founding administrators of Indian cricket.
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy replaces both titles, bringing a unified identity to one of cricket’s most celebrated rivalries. This move mirrors a broader trend in international cricket, where traditional series are being rebranded to celebrate legendary players and create symbolic continuity.MLast year, the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy was introduced for England-New Zealand Tests, while India and Australia continue to compete for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
A Milestone Moment for Test Cricket
The unveiling of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy marks a significant milestone not just for Indian and English cricket, but for the global Test arena. It is a reminder of the enduring appeal of the longest format—and a fitting tribute to two icons whose careers have transcended borders and generations.
