The England-India Test series finally has a permanent and unified name: the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Previously, the series was called the Pataudi Trophy in England and the Anthony de Mello Trophy in India. This new title honours two modern cricketing greats—James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. Anderson is the highest wicket-taker among pacers in Test history, while Tendulkar is the leading Test run-scorer.
Both legends shaped cricket across generations and inspired millions of fans worldwide. This move by the BCCI and ECB sends a clear message: Test cricket remains elite. It also aligns with global cricketing trends, where major rivalries now have named trophies.
A consistent name across countries adds historical depth and emotional connection. Young fans can now link greatness to this rivalry easily. It’s no longer just about results, but also about legacy, identity, and storytelling through sport. This new title gives the series timeless relevance beyond the boundary lines, like India in CT 2025.
📍 Unveiling at Lord’s before WTC Final adds drama and elegance to the moment
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will be unveiled at Lord’s on June 11, just before the World Test Championship final. This adds enormous prestige, symbolism, and visibility to the moment. Lord’s is not just a stadium; it’s a landmark in cricketing history. Hosting the trophy launch here gives it global attention.
Fans from around the world will witness the event live. It’s a classy move by the BCCI and ECB. The timing also sets the tone for the new WTC cycle. England and India begin their campaign with a five-Test series soon after, as Bangladesh just ended a series against Zimbabwe.
By launching the trophy right before the final, cricket’s governing bodies link the past, present, and future. It’s a reminder that Test cricket still holds emotional power. The ceremony will not just be a formality—it will be a tribute to two iconic careers. It’s a perfect cricketing celebration like indian fans after India winning in CT 2025.
👑 Why Anderson and Tendulkar represent the perfect balance of pace and grace
James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar are icons from two different ends of the cricket spectrum. Anderson, with his swing and control, dominated batsmen for over two decades. Tendulkar, with his timing and technique, defined consistency and brilliance with the bat.
They faced each other several times in their careers. Anderson dismissed Tendulkar nine times in Tests—more than any other bowler. Yet their rivalry was built on mutual respect and legendary performances. Together, they played 388 Tests: 200 by Tendulkar, 188 by Anderson.
Their careers represent commitment, discipline, and class. This trophy name honours their longevity and greatness. It’s also a rare tribute where both honorees are living legends. Anderson retired in 2024, like Kohli in 2025.
Tendulkar retired in 2013. Both now stand immortalised through this trophy. For fans, it bridges two cricket-loving nations and two unmatched cricketing styles—raw English seam versus timeless Indian batting.
🔥 Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 15,921 Test runs still defines cricketing greatness today
Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in Test history, with an incredible 15,921 runs from 200 matches. His average of 53.78 reflects unmatched consistency across two decades. He scored 51 Test hundreds and 68 fifties—both records in world cricket. His highest score, 248 not out, came against Bangladesh.
From debuting at age 16 in 1989 to retiring in 2013, Tendulkar became the face of Indian cricket. He inspired a whole generation of players and fans. His style was elegant, his temperament unshakable. Tendulkar’s performances in Australia, England, and South Africa were often masterclasses.
He adapted to every surface, every bowling attack, and every pressure moment. His 100 international centuries remain a landmark unlikely to be broken. He took 115 catches in Tests as well, showcasing his all-round value. According to ESPN and Britannica, Tendulkar is often called cricket’s greatest ambassador. This trophy is a tribute well earned.
🧊 James Anderson’s 700 Test wickets is a record unmatched by any fast bowler ever
James Anderson has taken 700 wickets in Test matches—more than any other fast bowler in history. His bowling average of 26.53 speaks volumes about his consistency. Over 21 years, Anderson destroyed batting line-ups across continents. His best innings figures are 7 for 42, and he has 32 five-wicket hauls.
He also has 3 ten-wicket match performances and over 1,300 maiden overs to his name. Anderson’s control, swing, and fitness helped him succeed in both home and away conditions. He began his Test career in 2003 against Zimbabwe and retired in 2024 after playing 188 Tests.
Only Muttiah Muralitharan has more Test wickets overall. Anderson also took 104 catches, making him one of the most complete bowlers ever. As per Cricbuzz and Hindustan Times, his legacy is one of skill and longevity. His contribution makes the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy a true reflection of modern Test greatness, like Australia in ICC Events.
🕰️ Previous names of the series reflect India’s heritage and England’s cricketing ties
Before the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the series had two different names based on location. In England matches, it was called the Pataudi Trophy. This honored Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, both captained India. In India, the series was called the Anthony de Mello Trophy.
Anthony de Mello was one of the BCCI’s founding members and its first secretary. These names reflected history and early contributions to Indian cricket’s growth. But they lacked global appeal and modern-day connection. By renaming the series after players like Tendulkar and Anderson, the boards are creating a fan-first legacy in domestic cricket.
The move also helps the trophy become easier to market and remember. Now there’s one common name regardless of location. This change makes the rivalry modern, clean, and timeless. It also brings the series in line with other big-name rivalries across cricketing nations.
🌍 Trophy name creates global relevance and celebrates heroes that fans actually grew up watching
Test cricket is often seen as traditional and slow-moving, but naming trophies after legends changes that. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy makes the format feel personal and fresh for young fans. Fans now relate to the players they actually watched, admired, and supported.
This trophy follows successful examples like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the Richards-Botham Trophy. These names connect fans emotionally and keep historical rivalries alive. For broadcasters, it creates clear branding and narrative. For fans, it adds storytelling and legacy to a five-match series, creating upsets in cricket.
It’s no longer just about wins or losses; it’s about who you’re playing for. This helps Test cricket remain relevant in a T20-driven world. The ECB and BCCI have taken a bold, smart step here. They’ve linked past greatness with present branding needs. That’s a win for fans, players, and cricket’s global future.
