Cricket’s historic rivalry between India and England is all set to take on a new identity with the launch of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy—an honour that pays tribute to two of the greatest players to ever play the game.

The fierce and long-standing cricket rivalry between India and England just got a major upgrade. Starting this season, the two nations will battle it out for the newly named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, a title that celebrates the legacies of England’s James Anderson and India’s Sachin Tendulkar—two absolute legends of Test cricket.

Quick Read: Key Highlights

• India and England’s Test series will now be called the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
• Announced jointly by the ECB and BCCI ahead of the WTC Final.
• The trophy will be unveiled at Lord’s by Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson on June 11.
• Marks a shift from previous series names: Pataudi Trophy (in England) and Anthony de Mello Trophy (in India).
• The upcoming five-Test series begins June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.
• Anderson retired in July 2024 after a record 188 Tests; Tendulkar retired in 2013 after playing 200 Tests.
• Follows the recent trend of naming series after legendary players, like the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy and Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

One of cricket’s most iconic rivalries is entering a new era—one that blends rich history with timeless greatness. The upcoming Test battles between India and England will now be known as contests for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, honouring the unparalleled contributions of James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar to the sport.

This decision was jointly made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The move comes just before the final of the World Test Championship (WTC), scheduled to start June 11 at Lord’s, where the trophy will be officially unveiled. And fittingly, it will be presented by the two cricket icons themselves—Tendulkar and Anderson.

This new trophy also brings consistency to a series that previously had different titles based on location. Traditionally, when India toured England, the teams competed for the Pataudi Trophy, named after Indian cricket legend Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. In contrast, matches played in India were fought for the Anthony de Mello Trophy, named after one of the founding administrators of Indian cricket.

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy replaces both and gives the India-England series a unified identity, creating a shared symbol of cricketing excellence across continents.

And who better to represent that excellence than Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson?

Tendulkar, affectionately called the ‘Little Master’, is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters in the history of the sport. With 200 Test matches, over 15,000 runs, and a career that inspired generations, his contribution to Indian cricket is unmatched.

Anderson, on the other hand, redefined fast bowling longevity. Known for his deadly swing, masterful control, and unrelenting spirit, the English pacer holds the record for most Test wickets by a fast bowler and finished his career with 188 appearances. He officially retired in July 2024, ending a remarkable two-decade run in international cricket.

Together, they symbolize what Test cricket stands for—patience, skill, discipline, and endurance.

The decision to name the trophy after them also mirrors a broader trend in modern Test cricket. In November 2024, the series between England and New Zealand was rebranded as the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, in memory of Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe. Similarly, India and Australia continue to contest the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, one of the most prestigious titles in Test cricket.

By naming series after iconic players, cricket boards are not just honouring the past—they’re building a deeper emotional connection with fans, especially the newer generation who may not have witnessed these legends live. It also adds a touch of legacy and meaning to every ball bowled and every run scored.

The timing couldn’t be better. As the new WTC cycle kicks off, India and England will face off in a five-Test series beginning June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. This marks a fresh start for both sides, and what better way to begin than under the banner of two of the game’s finest?

For fans, players, and the cricketing world at large, the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is more than just a new name. It’s a reminder of what makes Test cricket special—and a celebration of those who made it unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy isn’t just a tribute—it’s a statement. A statement that Test cricket, with all its history and heart, still has a powerful place in the modern game. And with legends like Tendulkar and Anderson at the center of this new chapter, the India-England rivalry is all set to become even more iconic.