The upcoming Test series between India and England has a new name for its coveted trophy: the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, replacing the Pataudi Trophy. This decision has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and veterans alike. Among them is Kapil Dev, the captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian team.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Tunbridge Wells, Kapil Dev addressed the renaming. “I was surprised to hear the change of name from Pataudi to Sachin-Anderson. Such things don’t usually happen…” he remarked. He further added, “It feels a bit strange. Does something like this really happen? But it’s fine everything goes on in cricket. After all, it doesn’t really matter. Cricket is cricket, and it should remain the same on the field.”
The Pataudi Trophy was established in 2007 to honor former Indian captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. The new name recognizes the contributions of James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. The Pataudi legacy will live on through the Pataudi Medal, which will be awarded to the winning captain.