ENG vs IND 2025: Sachin Tendulkar, James Anderson pose alongside Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

Cricket’s rich legacy added a new chapter on the eve of the 2025 England-India Test series, as legendary figures Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson unveiled the newly instituted Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy at Headingley, Leeds. The trophy, introduced by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), will now be the official prize awarded to the winner of every Test series between the two nations.

This momentous initiative celebrates two of the game’s greatest Tendulkar, the highest run-scorer in Test history, and Anderson, the most successful fast bowler ever in the format. With etched imagery and engraved signatures of both icons, the trophy symbolises excellence, endurance, and the storied rivalry that India and England have shared across generations.

Until now, the England vs India Test series has been contested for the Pataudi Trophy (in England) and the Anthony De Mello Trophy (in India). This bifurcation has now been unified under a single honour, the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, making it a permanent representation of mutual respect and cricketing grandeur. To ensure the Pataudi legacy continues, a newly introduced Pataudi Medal will be awarded to the winning captain of each series going forward.

Tendulkar and Anderson honoured as a new trophy begins the England–India Test series

James Anderson, who retired earlier this year with a stunning tally of 704 Test wickets, including 149 against India in 39 matches, spoke emotionally about the recognition: “It’s a proud moment for me and my family to have this iconic series named after Sachin and me. The rivalry between our two nations has always been special, full of history, intensity and unforgettable moments.”

Tendulkar, who amassed a staggering 15,921 runs in 200 Tests, including 2,535 runs in 32 Tests against England, reflected on the deeper meaning of Test cricket: “Test cricket embodies life – you give your best, and if things go wrong, it gives you another day to regroup. I owe my foundation to Test cricket. And now, as I share this recognition with my on-field challenger and off-field gentleman James, I hope the world celebrates the essence of this great format even more.”

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BCCI President Roger Binny called the renaming “a truly momentous occasion”, stating that the trophy will not only honour individual greatness but also the intense, respectful rivalry that has defined India-England Tests. Richard Thompson, Chair of the ECB, added, “Jimmy and Sachin have given cricket fans around the world so many unforgettable moments. This trophy is a brilliant way to honour two absolute legends.”

Test Records that Define an Era

Player	Matches vs Opponent	Wickets/Runs	Average	Best Performance
James Anderson	39 Tests vs India	149 wickets	25.47	6 five-wicket hauls
Sachin Tendulkar	32 Tests vs England	2,535 runs	51.73	Highest Score: 193 (Headingley, 2002)

Notably, the venue for the trophy unveiling, Headingley, is etched in history as the site of Tendulkar’s highest score against England, and it will now host the opening Test of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle (2025–27).

Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy marks a fresh start for the England–India Test series

The renaming decision triggered reactions from some quarters who believed the Pataudi Trophy’s legacy was being diminished. Tendulkar responded with grace and clarity: “The decision to retire the trophy rested with the BCCI and ECB. Only after they had made the decision did they communicate that to me. I’m fully aware of the Pataudi family's contribution and respect it deeply.”

As England and India gear up for a blockbuster five-match Test series, the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy brings renewed significance to the contest. The blend of elite competition, iconic memories, and heritage will continue to define this rivalry, now under a banner that befits the stature of its two most influential performers. This summer, a new era begins, one that honours the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future of Test cricket.