Pataudi Name Almost Erased—Tendulkar’s Calls Brought It Back

NEW DELHI (IANS)- Sachin Tendulkar expressed satisfaction at ensuring the Pataudi family’s legacy remains a part of the India-England cricket rivalry.

This will be through a newly introduced medal for the winning captain of the Test series, which is now contested for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

The ECB’s initial decision to rename the erstwhile Pataudi Trophy after Tendulkar and James Anderson had drawn criticism.

However, Tendulkar revealed he reached out to the ECB, BCCI, and ICC Chairman Jay Shah to ensure the Pataudi name would remain connected to India-England cricket.

As a result, it was unveiled on June 19 that a “Pataudi Medal” will be presented to the winning captain of each Test series between the two teams.

“When the Pataudi Trophy was retired, I was travelling, I think in Spain or somewhere, and I heard about it,” Tendulkar recounted in a select virtual interaction with IANS, ahead of the first Test starting in Leeds on June 20.

“The decision was taken by the ECB and BCCI to retire and start a new trophy altogether.

So, the new trophy, the first time I got to know about it was, I think, just some time ago, last month, when ECB and BCCI decided to name this trophy after both of us.”

“It’s a nice recognition, I thought, of our contributions to our respective nations in Test cricket.

At the same time, I picked up the phone, and my first phone call was to the Pataudi family.

I spoke to them and also discussed about keeping the legacy alive.

It’s important to not forget their contribution to Indian cricket and having inspired so many generations, I think it’s important.”

He continued, “I said, I’ll come back to you on this. I spoke to Mr. Jay Shah (ICC Chairman), BCCI, and ECB, and shared some ideas.

Over some time, and a few phone calls, we unanimously decided that the Pataudi Medal of Excellence should be awarded to the winning captain, because he was known for his leadership, and this would be a good match.”

The Pataudi family’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the history of cricket between India and England.

Both Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son, Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, led the Indian cricket team and also played county cricket in England.

Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi holds the unique distinction of being the only cricketer to represent both countries in Tests.

“The outcome of those phone calls and multiple discussions was very, very positive,” Tendulkar concluded.

“It was heartw

arming to know that we’ve kept the legacy alive. It is important that it’s remembered in the way it’s meant to be.

I’ve always respected my seniors, and I’ve always valued their contribution to our country, as the foundation was built then.

On that foundation, multiple things have happened over a period of time. Hopefully, what the newer generation constructs will be something that, over a period of time, we’ll look back and be proud of.

So, we cannot forget our heroes, and all in all, it was indeed a positive outcome, to have not just the trophy named after the two of us, but also in knowing that Mr. Pataudi’s legacy is very much alive.” (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)