The England–India men’s Test series will now be played for a newly introduced trophy named in honour of James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. The decision marks a shift from earlier series titles and pays tribute to the enduring contributions of two of Test cricket’s most respected figures.
Set to debut in the upcoming five-match series beginning 20 June 2025 at Headingley in Leeds, the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy will replace both the Pataudi Trophy, previously used in England, and the Anthony De Mello Trophy, awarded when the series was played in India. This new arrangement, developed jointly by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), will apply to all future bilateral men’s Test series between the two countries.
Although the Pataudi Trophy will no longer be used, the legacy of the Pataudi family will continue through the Pataudi Medal, which will now be presented to the captain of the winning team at the conclusion of each series. The new trophy itself features imagery of both Tendulkar and Anderson in action, along with their engraved signatures.
Anderson, who concluded his Test career earlier this year, is the most successful fast bowler in Test cricket history with 704 wickets in 188 matches. Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the game’s most accomplished batters, played 200 Tests and scored 15,921 runs — more than any other player in the format. Anderson was knighted for services to cricket in 2024, while Tendulkar received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 2014.
Reflecting on the honour, Anderson said it was a proud moment for both himself and his family. He described the England–India rivalry as “full of history, intensity and unforgettable moments” and expressed hope that the upcoming series would deliver the kind of competitive cricket fans have come to expect.
Tendulkar spoke of the deep connection he feels with the longest format of the game, calling it “the highest form of the game” and noting how it teaches endurance, discipline, and resilience. He said he was pleased to share this recognition with Anderson and hoped that the new trophy would inspire continued appreciation for Test cricket.
Richard Thompson, Chair of the ECB, said the new trophy is a fitting tribute to two players who have contributed immensely to the sport, both on and off the field. He also emphasised that the Pataudi family’s legacy would continue to be honoured through the presentation of the Pataudi Medal.
BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia said it was a matter of pride to name the series after two players who have made lasting impacts on international cricket. BCCI President Roger Binny called the move a significant milestone and noted that it adds another dimension to the historic rivalry between the two nations.
Anderson had an especially strong record against India, taking 149 wickets in 39 matches at an average of 25.47, including six five-wicket hauls. Tendulkar played 32 Tests against England, scoring 2,535 runs at an average of 51.73. His top score against England was 193 at Headingley in 2002, a ground he had previously represented during his stint with Yorkshire in 1992.
The upcoming series will begin at Headingley and continue through matches at Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval, concluding in early August. England and India have faced each other in 136 Test matches to date. England has won 51, India has won 35, and 50 matches have ended in draws.
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