The decision to rename the Pataudi Trophy, which has been awarded to the winner of the Test series between England and India on English soil since 2007, to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy has sparked considerable controversy. The trophy, named after Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, honored a family with a unique connection to both English and Indian cricket. Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi played for both England and India, while Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, also known as "Tiger" Pataudi, captained India.

Sachin Tendulkar has now broken his silence on the matter, stating that he did everything he could to preserve the Pataudi legacy after being informed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about the decision to rename the trophy after him and James Anderson.

Tendulkar emphasized the importance of keeping the Pataudi legacy alive, acknowledging the family's significant contribution to Indian cricket. He revealed that he had spoken to the Pataudi family, assuring them that he would do all he could to ensure their legacy was honored. Tendulkar also communicated with Jay Shah of the BCCI and the ECB, sharing his thoughts on the matter.

Following these discussions, it was decided that a "Pataudi Medal of Excellence" would be awarded to the winning captain of each series. Tendulkar clarified that the decision to retire the Pataudi Trophy rested with the BCCI and the ECB, and upon being informed, he did his best to ensure the Pataudi legacy would continue to be recognized.

The move to rename the trophy has been met with criticism from various quarters. Some argue that it disregards the historical significance and the contributions of the Pataudi family to both Indian and English cricket. Concerns have been raised about erasing cricketing legacy for modern relevance.

Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment, calling the renaming "disturbing." Sharmila Tagore, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi's wife, described the move as insensitive, noting that the family was not consulted. James Anderson, while feeling "very proud" to have the trophy named after him alongside Tendulkar, acknowledged Sachin's legendary status and the honor of being associated with him.

The unveiling of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is scheduled for June 19, ahead of the first Test match between England and India on June 20 at Headingley. The series will be the first contested for the newly named trophy.