India-England Test Series Renamed to Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy Amid Controversy
Introduction to the Series Name Change
The upcoming Test series between India and England, set to commence on June 20 in Leeds, will now be referred to as the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy. This decision has sparked considerable discontent among fans, as the series held in England has been known as the Pataudi Trophy since 2007, honoring the late Indian captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi.
Background of the Pataudi Trophy
The Pataudi Trophy was established to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India's first Test match against England. When the series takes place in India, it is recognized as the Anthony de Mello Trophy, named after a former president of the BCCI.
BCCI's Reaction to Fan Outcry
In response to the backlash regarding the name change, many cricket fans and analysts expressed their displeasure. Consequently, the BCCI has urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to rename one of the post-match awards in honor of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi to ensure his legacy is preserved.
Official Statement from BCCI
"The ECB has the authority to decide the naming of their series. The BCCI is not involved in this decision as it is their home series. We have asked them to consider naming one of the post-match trophies after Pataudi, and they will respond to us soon."
Historical Context of Series Renaming
This renaming is not unprecedented; in 2020, the Wisden Trophy between England and the West Indies was renamed the Richards-Botham Trophy, honoring cricket legends Viv Richards and Ian Botham.
Significance of the Pataudi Trophy
The Pataudi Trophy holds special significance as Pataudi made substantial contributions to Indian cricket. He became captain at the young age of 21 and played 46 Test matches, scoring 2,793 runs, including six centuries, with a highest score of 203 not out. His father, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, also represented both England and India in Test cricket.
Leadership Changes in Indian Cricket
This series marks a pivotal moment for Indian cricket, as Shubman Gill is set to assume the role of Test captain following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket.