England vs India 2025: Sachin Tendulkar requests BCCI and ECB to retain Pataudi legacy
Back at the crease
: For all Sachin Tendulkar fans who lost interest in the gentleman’s game after his retirement, here is something that could lift your spirits. The icon will play in the inaugural edition of the International Masters League (IML) in November in Mumbai, Lucknow and Raipur. It will have veterans from India, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, England and Sri Lanka. The T20 tournament, which will be held every year, is the creation of Tendulkar and former captain Sunil Gavaskar, the commissioner of the tournament. Said Tendulkar, “…. There is now a strong desire among fans across ages to re-witness age-old battles in newer formats.”
Couldn’t agree more, little master! | Reuters
Sachin Tendulkar has requested the BCCI to retain the legacy of IAK Pataudi, whose name was used for the trophy given to the winning team of India's Test series in England. The series, named the Pataudi Trophy, was in honour of the legend who is the only player to represent both India and England in international cricket.
However, with the BCCI and ECB mutually deciding on renaming the series as Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in honour of James Anderson and Tendulkar, it was decided to retire the name Pataudi Trophy. They had also informed the Pataudi family about the formalities.
The latest development, though, is that Tendulkar has requested the BCCI to continue the Pataudi legacy in future India-England series as well.
According to Cricbuzz, the 52-year-old has spoken to senior officials from the BCCI and ECB regarding the matter, and both Boards have reportedly agreed to the request. Jay Shah, current ICC Chair and former BCCI secretary, also played his part in ensuring that Tendulkar's request was met.
The trophy-naming ceremony was initially planned to be held on June 14 on the sidelines of the WTC Final at Lord's, but that plan was called off as a mark of respect to the victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash. The new date and venue of the ceremony are currently under wraps.
An ECB official has confirmed the development regarding the Pataudi legacy, but didn't divulge further details. There is speculation that a Pataudi medallion will be given, either to the winning captain or to the best performer of the series. Regardless, the legacy is set to continue.
"Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series," said the official while speaking to Cricbuzz.
While India's home Test series against England had a name, Anthony de Mello Trophy in honour of one of BCCI's founder members, the away tours of England didn't officially have a name. In 2007, the ECB decided to name it the Pataudi Trophy in honour of Pataudi Sr, who played three Tests apiece for England and India. His son, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, later represented India with distinction and also captained the country.
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