Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson playing [Source: @WisdenCricket/X]
In a landmark decision celebrating cricketing legends from both nations, the upcoming five-match Test series between England and India will be contested for the newly introduced Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy.
The trophy, named after two of the greatest cricketers in Test history, India’s Sachin Tendulkar and England’s James Anderson, will be unveiled ahead of the series opener at Headingley on June 20, 2025.
Pataudi Trophy Replaced By Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy
As per a BBC report, the previously named Pataudi Trophy will be played under the new name of Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy. Notably, Sachin Tendulkar, revered as the highest run-scorer in Test cricket with 15,921 runs across 200 matches between 1989 and 2013, is a symbol of batting excellence worldwide.
On the other hand, James Anderson holds the distinction of being England’s all-time leading wicket-taker and the most successful pace bowler in Test cricket history, with 704 wickets to his name. Since retiring from international cricket last summer, Anderson has remained involved with the England setup as a bowling consultant and continues to play county cricket for Lancashire.
The Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy honours the unique rivalry and mutual respect between the two legends, who faced each other in 14 Tests. Notably, no bowler dismissed Sachin Tendulkar more times than Anderson, who accounted for his wicket nine times.
This new trophy follows the precedent set by the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, named after New Zealand’s Martin Crowe and England’s Graham Thorpe, which debuted during England’s tour of New Zealand last year.
Anthony de Mello Trophy To Be Renamed Too?
Meanwhile, Test series held in India continue to be played for the Anthony de Mello Trophy, named after the former Indian cricket administrator. It remains unclear whether the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy will replace the De Mello Trophy for home series.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has declined to comment on the specifics of the trophy’s introduction. Nonetheless, the new trophy adds a fresh chapter to the storied cricketing rivalry between England and India, celebrating two icons whose careers have left an indelible mark on the sport.