James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar say they are proud to have one of cricket’s most iconic rivalries named in their honor.
On the eve of the England-India Test series, the new “Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy” was officially unveiled. Both legends—Tendulkar and Anderson—were present at the ceremony, which introduced the trophy that will now be awarded for every Test series between India and England.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the launch on Thursday in an official statement. Photos shared on social media showed Tendulkar, the most prolific batter in Test history, and Anderson, the highest wicket-taking pace bowler, posing with the trophy. The trophy itself features etched images and signatures of both greats.
The first contest for the new trophy begins Friday at Headingley.
Previously, when India toured England, the Test series was contested for the Pataudi Trophy—named after Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, who played for both nations. In India, the series was known as the Anthony de Mello Trophy, named after one of the BCCI’s founding figures and its first secretary and president from 1946–47 to 1950–51.
Though the trophy name has changed, the Pataudi legacy hasn’t been erased. Some in the Indian cricket community, including the Pataudi family, had expressed concern over the removal of the name. Tendulkar himself reportedly requested that the boards retain some recognition of the Pataudi name.
As a result, the ‘Pataudi Medal’ will now be awarded to the winning series captain.
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy was originally scheduled to be unveiled on Day 4 of the ICC World Test Championship final between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s. However, the event was postponed due to a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India.
Anderson, who officially retired from Test cricket after last July’s Lord’s Test against the West Indies, ended his storied career with 704 wickets from 188 matches. Since retirement, he has taken on a role as a bowling consultant with England and continues to play county cricket for Lancashire after signing a new deal. He turns 43 next month.
Honored to share this recognition with Tendulkar, Anderson—who claimed 149 wickets in 39 Tests against India—said:
“It’s a proud moment for me and my family to have this iconic series named after Sachin and myself. The rivalry between our two nations has always been special – historic, passionate and full of unforgettable moments.
To be recognized in this way is truly humbling. I’m looking forward to the next chapter of this battle in England this summer.”
Tendulkar, who retired in 2013 after becoming the first player to reach 200 Test appearances, holds records for most Test matches (200), most runs (15,921), and most centuries (51).
In a heartfelt reflection, the Indian legend said:
“In my opinion, Test cricket is a reflection of life – where you face challenges every day, every session and every hour, and need to work hard to overcome them.
It’s the ultimate format that tests your skills, patience, discipline, and resilience. I am grateful to Test cricket for shaping me into the person I am today—it taught me how to turn setbacks into comebacks and dreams into reality.
India and England have played a key role in elevating Test cricket, making it a source of inspiration for future generations. And now, to share this honor with my on-field competitor and off-field gentleman, James (Anderson), I hope the world continues to celebrate Test cricket even more.”
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will be contested over five matches, marking the beginning of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle for both England and India.
