New Delhi– As India and England prepare to kick off their much-anticipated five-match Test series, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar reflected on the enduring significance of red-ball cricket, calling it the “highest form of the game” that instills values of endurance, discipline, and adaptability.
“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,” said the 52-year-old batting icon. “It is the highest form of the game that teaches you endurance, discipline, and adaptability against all odds. I owe my foundation to Test cricket, as it saw me through both disappointment and triumph, from aspirations to fulfillment.”
This summer, the historic India-England Test series has been renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, in honor of Tendulkar and England pace legend James Anderson. The new name replaces the Pataudi Trophy, following a joint decision by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Tendulkar expressed his hope that the new trophy will inspire future generations and further elevate the global standing of Test cricket.
“India and England have played a major role in shaping the history and future of Test cricket,” he said. “As I share this recognition with my on-field challenger and off-field gentleman, James Anderson, I hope the world continues to celebrate the essence of Test cricket and allows it to traverse boundaries yet untrodden.”
James Anderson, England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, called the naming of the trophy a proud moment for him and his family.
“To have this iconic series named after Sachin and myself is a real honor,” Anderson said. “The rivalry between our two nations has always been special — full of history, intensity, and unforgettable moments. I’m looking forward to watching the next chapter unfold this summer in England. This is elite sport at its finest.”
BCCI President Roger Binny hailed the renaming as a tribute to two legends who defined an era.
“This is a truly momentous occasion for cricket,” Binny said. “To rename the prestigious Test series between India and England after two absolute titans of the game is a fitting tribute to their unparalleled contributions. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will serve as a permanent reminder of the fierce yet respectful rivalry between our two cricketing nations.”
Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary of the BCCI, emphasized the cultural and sporting importance of the new trophy.
“India and England have always shared a riveting cricketing rivalry. Naming the series after two of the game’s most iconic figures — Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson — is a matter of immense pride,” he said. “Their careers have inspired millions, and this trophy will add a new chapter to the storied Test history between these two nations.”
ECB Chair Richard Thompson echoed the sentiment, calling the new trophy a “brilliant way to honor two absolute legends of the game.”
“Jimmy and Sachin have delivered countless unforgettable moments to fans around the world,” Thompson said. “It’s fitting that their names will now be attached to every men’s Test series between England and India. Both are not just icons on the field but ambassadors off it.”
Thompson also confirmed that the Pataudi Medal, named in honor of the late Nawab of Pataudi, will continue to be awarded to the winning captain, preserving the historic legacy of the Pataudi family in India-England cricketing ties.
The first Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series is set to begin in just a few days, carrying with it a legacy of fierce competition and mutual respect. (Source: IANS)
