ENG vs IND 2025: Sachin Tendulkar, James Anderson pose alongside Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

Legendary cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson came together to unveil the newly named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, set to be contested in future Test series contested between England and India. The unveiling took place ahead of the five-match Test series beginning June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, marking the start of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle (2025-27).

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), on the eve of the opening Test, introduced the new trophy, a tribute to two of the most celebrated cricketers in the history of the sport. The trophy featured engraved depictions and signatures of both Tendulkar and Anderson.

James Anderson, who retired from international cricket last year, stands as the most successful fast bowler in Test history with 704 wickets, 149 of which came against India in 39 Tests at an exceptional average of just 25.47. 

“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. 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. This is elite sport at its finest,” Anderson was quoted in a statement.

I owe my foundation to Test cricket: Tendulkar

On the other hand, Tendulkar is the all-time leading run-scorer in Tests with 15,921 runs from 200 matches, including 2,535 runs against England at an average of 51.73.

“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. I owe my foundation to Test cricket, as it has seen me grow from disappointments to triumphs, from aspirations to fulfilment," Tendulkar said as he posed alongside the English legend for a momentous photograph.

Meanwhile, the new trophy, which has replaced the Pataudi Trophy, has symbolised the cricketing relations between the two nations since 2007. The trophy was named after Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, a legendary former Indian captain, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India’s first Test match in 1932. However, the boards have decided to honour the previous trophy through the introduction of the Pataudi Medal, which will be awarded to the winning captain of the series.

Notably, the announcement of the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy triggered immense controversy surrounding the Pataudi Trophy and the decision to rename the Test series between the two countries. Following this, Tendulkar clarified about the controversy and would do anything to carry its legacy.
 
"Yes, I have [stay silent]. Let me then tell you the full thing. First things first, the decision to retire the trophy rested with the BCCI and the ECB. Only after they had taken the decision did they communicate that to me. As far as the Pataudi family is concerned, I am conscious of the contribution they have made to Indian cricket. Pataudi senior played for England and for India, while Tiger Pataudi captained India with distinction. I did not see them play for I wasn't born, but I have indeed heard stories and those stories inspire us all," Tendulkar told RevSportz.