One of cricket’s most storied rivalries has been given a historic new identity. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have jointly announced the launch of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, a prestigious honour that will now be awarded to the winner of every Test series between India and England.The upcoming five-match Test series, beginning at Headingley on Friday, will be the first contested under this new title. The trophy celebrates two of the most iconic names in the history of Test cricket – James Anderson, the highest wicket-taking fast bowler, and Sachin Tendulkar, the all-time leading run-scorer in the format.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Previously, the series was played for the Pataudi Trophy in England and the Anthony De Mello Trophy in India. While those titles have now been unified, the legacy of the Pataudi family will continue with the introduction of the Pataudi Medal, which will be presented to the winning captain at the conclusion of each England–India Test series.Featuring etched images and engraved signatures of Anderson and Tendulkar, the new trophy is a tribute to two figures who shaped modern Test cricket through excellence, longevity, and sportsmanship. The ECB and BCCI described the creation of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy as a “celebration of mutual respect, performance, and cricketing history.”
Sachin Tendulkar, who played 200 Test matches and scored a record 15,921 runs, described the format as foundational to his cricketing journey.“For me, Test cricket embodies life – you give your best, and if things go wrong, it gives you another day to regroup, think, unlearn, and bounce back. It is the highest form of the game that teaches you endurance, discipline and adaptability, against all odds,” Tendulkar said.
Poll
Which player do you think had a greater impact on Test cricket?
“I owe my foundation to Test cricket… And now, as I share this recognition with my on-field challenger and off-field gentleman James, I hope that the world celebrates the essence of Test cricket even more — allowing it to traverse boundaries yet untrodden.”James Anderson, who retired earlier this year with 704 Test wickets in 188 matches, said the honour was deeply personal.“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 something special — full of history, intensity and unforgettable moments,” Anderson said.“To be recognised in this way is a real honour. I’m looking forward to seeing the next chapter unfold in England this summer. It promises to be compelling, competitive cricket — exactly what you’d expect from two great sides.”
The announcement was welcomed across cricketing boards and administrative leadership. ECB chair Richard Thompson called the initiative a tribute to two ambassadors of the game.“Jimmy and Sachin have given cricket fans around the world so many unforgettable moments. This trophy is a brilliant way to honour two absolute legends,” Thompson said.“The Pataudi family also has a hugely important place in the cricketing connections between our countries, and I’m pleased we will continue to honour their legacy through the awarding of the Pataudi Medal.”BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the naming reflects the lasting impact of both legends.“India and England have always shared a riveting cricketing rivalry. It’s a matter of immense pride that the series will be named after Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson,” Saikia said. “They lit up the game with brilliant performances that have inspired millions.”
BCCI president Roger Binny added that the decision was not just ceremonial, but meaningful.“This is a truly momentous occasion. The ‘Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy’ will not only celebrate their individual legacies but also serve as a permanent reminder of the fierce yet respectful rivalry that has defined India–England Test cricket for decades.”Their individual records in this bilateral context further justify the naming. Tendulkar scored 2,535 runs against England in 32 Tests at an average of 51.73, including a memorable 193 at Headingley in 2002. Anderson, meanwhile, tormented Indian batters across eras, claiming 149 wickets in 39 matches at 25.47, including six five-wicket hauls.Off the field, both players have been recognised for their contributions: Anderson received a knighthood in 2024, and Tendulkar was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 2014.