Courtesy: BCCI/Google
Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has divulged his views on the renaming of the England-India Test series from the Pataudi Trophy to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), along with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), renamed the distinguished red-ball competition, which was in honour of legendary Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. The decision was received with criticism from avid Team India fans who felt the both boards shouldn’t do away with the legacy.
In a recent development, Tendulkar has also divulged his views on the controversy. Speaking to RevSportz, he said it was both boards’ decision to retire the trophy but he ensured the legacy is continued. “Let me then tell you the full thing. First things first, the decision to retire the trophy rested with the BCCI and the ECB. Only after they had taken the decision did they communicate that to me. As far as the Pataudi family is concerned, I am conscious of the contribution they have made to Indian cricket. Pataudi senior played for England and for India, while Tiger Pataudi captained India with distinction. I did not see them play for I wasn't born, but I have indeed heard stories and those stories inspire us all. That's why I was determined to ensure that the legacy was kept intact,” remarked Tendulkar.
Sachin Tendulkar got in touch with Jay Shah and Pataudi family
Sachin also went on to divulge that he also spoke with the Pataudi family and International Cricket Council (ICC) President Jay Shah to keep the Pataudi legacy alive. "When I got to know, I called the (Pataudi) family and had a conversation. Thereafter, I spoke to Mr Jay Shah, the BCCI and the ECB, and mentioned to them that something had to be done to ensure the legacy stayed on,” added Tendulkar.
The Pataudi legacy will remain intact in a different style as the victorious skipper of the series will be honoured with the Pataudi Medal of Excellence. The colossal red-ball competition will be played from June 20 to August 4. Leeds, Birmingham, London, and Great Manchester will hold the matches at their iconic venues.
