Sachin Tendulkar on the Pataudi medal legacy has made headlines. He helped establish the prestigious honour that preserves Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi’s legacy. As the India vs England Test series became the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Tendulkar ensured Pataudi’s name stayed alive by introducing the Pataudi Medal of Excellence.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Tendulkar said, “When ECB and BCCI retired the Pataudi Trophy, I didn’t expect anything to follow. Then, a few months later, I heard the new trophy would carry my name and Anderson’s. That was a wonderful surprise. Immediately, I called the Pataudi family. “I shared my thoughts with them. I said I wanted to keep his legacy alive. I told them, ‘I’ll have some ideas. I will come back to you.”
He added, “I shared my thoughts with both BCCI and ECB, and I felt the outcome was quite positive. Therefore, we decided that the winning captain would receive the Pataudi Medal of Excellence in recognition of Pataudi’s legendary leadership qualities. This way, his legacy continues. I’ve always maintained that anyone who has made significant contributions to Indian cricket, as well as the sport globally, deserves to be honored and remembered.”
Moreover, the new trophy showcases dynamic images of Tendulkar and James Anderson in action, and the trophy bears their engraved signatures. Tendulkar played 200 Tests during his career, whereas Anderson has taken the field in 188. Together, they bring a remarkable 45 years of Test cricket experience to the table. Tendulkar described this gesture as a beautiful symbol of mutual respect and dedication to the sport.
Also, James Anderson expressed, “It’s truly an honor to be recognized in this way. I eagerly await seeing how the next chapter unfolds in England this summer.” He described the rivalry between India and England as both historic and intense, and he shared his pride in receiving this honor alongside Tendulkar.
Tendulkar recalled playing against Anderson in many matches, from the 2003 World Cup to Tests in England. He called those moments “challenging” and “memorable.”
The first Test starts this Friday at Headingley. Similarly, Tendulkar’s mention of the Pataudi medal highlights cricket’s rich traditions. Moreover, this new initiative ensures that Pataudi’s legacy of leadership continues to be a significant part of the history between India and England in cricket.
