The England and Wales Board (ECB) unveiled the new Anderson-Tendulkar trophy, which will be contested in future Test series between India and England.
The trophy, featuring imagery of both Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson, was first displayed at an event at Lord’s on Friday, with both cricket legends present, ahead of the upcoming five-Test series between England and India, which starts on Friday.
The Pataudi family, after whom the previous England vs India series trophy was named, will continue to be honoured through the introduction of the Pataudi Medal, which will be awarded to the winning captain of the series.
“It’s a proud moment for me and my family to have this iconic series named after Sachin and myself,” said Anderson, who is the highest-wicket-taking pacer in Test cricket.
“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,” added Anderson.
Tendulkar, the leading run-scorer in Test cricket, spoke about the value of the format and the relevance of the India-England rivalry.
“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,” said Tendulkar.
India’s Sachin Tendulkar hits a ball from England’s James Anderson during the 3rd day of the first Test match at Lord’s cricket ground, London, Saturday July 23, 2011.
| Photo Credit:
TOM HEVEZI/AP
India’s Sachin Tendulkar hits a ball from England’s James Anderson during the 3rd day of the first Test match at Lord’s cricket ground, London, Saturday July 23, 2011.
| Photo Credit:
TOM HEVEZI/AP
“India and England have played a big role in shaping Test cricket in a way that it remains an evolving inspiration for subsequent generations. And now, as I share this recognition with my on-field challenger and an off-field gentleman James, I hope that the world celebrates the essence of Test cricket even more – allowing it to traverse boundaries yet untrodden,” added Tendulkar.