Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev questions ECB’s decision to rename iconic India-England Test trophy.
Former India captain and World Cup-winning legend Kapil Dev has voiced his disapproval over the renaming of the Pataudi Trophy to the newly christened Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, ahead of India’s Test tour of England starting June 20.
The trophy, originally introduced in 2007 to honour Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi—India’s youngest-ever Test captain and a key figure in Indo-English cricketing history—was recently renamed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)to commemorate James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.
“It felt a little strange,” said Kapil Dev while reacting to the change. “Does this also happen? But cricket is cricket. What matters is the game played on the ground.”
Kapil, known for his straightforward views, did not oppose Anderson and Tendulkar being honoured, but he emphasized that such decisions should not come at the cost of erasing cricketing heritage.
Background: What Is the Pataudi Trophy?
The Pataudi Trophy has historically been awarded to the winner of India-England Test series played in England. It honours the legacy of Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi (who played for both England and India) and his son Mansoor Ali Khan. The BCCI had introduced the trophy in 2007 to celebrate this shared cricketing history.
Kapil Dev Urges Team India to Focus on Cricket
In addition to his comments on the renaming, Kapil also had advice for Team India and captain Shubman Gill ahead of the Test series.
“Go, play, express yourself. Don’t play under pressure or expectations,” Kapil told reporters.
Fans and Experts Criticize Renaming
Several former cricketers and fans have criticized the ECB’s decision, calling it a disrespect to the Pataudi legacy. Critics argue that Anderson and Tendulkar could have been honoured differently—without retiring a trophy with historical and emotional significance.
India Tour of England 2025
- First Test: June 20, 2025, at Leeds
- Trophy: Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy (formerly Pataudi Trophy)
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