Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Unveiled—Bat Meets Ball, Legacy Meets Legacy

Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson came together at Lord's to launch the newly-named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which will become the official trophy for all India–England Test series from now on.

 

The unveiling, originally scheduled for June 14 but postponed due to the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, occurred on the night prior to the five-Test series opening at Headingley. The trophy replaces the Pataudi Trophy (used for series in England) and the Anthony de Mello Trophy (used in India), keeping bilateral series under one legendary canopy.

 

The silverware also features inscribed signatures and action shots of Tendulkar and Anderson—two of the most decorated cricketers in Test cricket history. Tendulkar, the highest run-scoring Test cricketer with 15,921 runs, and Anderson, the most successful fast bowler with 704 wickets, were being honored for their record-breaking contributions to the game.

 

While the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy shall now be the series' focal point, the legacy of the Pataudi family shall endure through the newly introduced Pataudi Medal, awarded to the winning captain.

 

Tendulkar reflected on the moment, saying, "The Test cricket is like life—it teaches you to persevere, improvise, and come back." Anderson added, "It's a privilege to be part of a rivalry that has defined the soul of Test cricket."

 

The 2025 series also witnesses the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle, with the two teams seeking early momentum in the race for the last. 

 

Sources: Outlook India, Central Chronicle, ICC, BCCI, Rediff