Follow UsEven before a single ball has been bowled, the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy has got off to the most controversial start. ECB and BCCI’s decision to rename the trophy from the Pataudi Trophy to Tendulkar-Anderson hasn’t gone down well with fans, who view it as an insult to Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi’s legacy.
While Sachin Tendulkar was silent for the longest time, the Master Blaster has broken the silence, revealing his efforts to keep the legacy alive. Sachin revealed that the decision to rename the trophy was solely between the two boards.
"Yes, I have [stay silent]. 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,” Tendulkar told RevSportz.
“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," he added.
So, how has Sachin still managed to keep the Patuadi legacy alive? The winning captain of the series will receive the ‘Pataudi Medal of Excellence’, in a mark of respect.
"That's why I was determined to ensure that the legacy was kept intact. When I got to know, I called the 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,” Sachin said.
“They heard my point of view, and thereafter we got on a second call where it was decided that the Pataudi name will be associated with the series, and the winning captain will be awarded the Pataudi Medal of Excellence. I have always respected my seniors, and did everything in my power to make sure that the Pataudi legacy continues to be associated with this series."
The first of the five-match Test series begins in Leeds on June 20 (Friday).