The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is facing criticism for its handling of the India-England Test series trophy, specifically regarding the legacy of the Pataudi family. The controversy began when the ECB renamed the Pataudi Trophy, established in 2007, to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, honoring James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar. This decision sparked immediate backlash from cricket fans and former players, including Sunil Gavaskar, who felt it diminished the Pataudi family's contributions to the sport.

In response to the outcry, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) urged the ECB to introduce the Pataudi Medal, to be awarded to the winning captain of each series. This move was seen as an attempt to preserve the Pataudi name and acknowledge the family's deep ties to both Indian and English cricket. Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son, Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, both captained India and played county cricket in England, creating a unique legacy that bridges the two cricketing nations. Sachin Tendulkar also reportedly reached out to the ECB to ensure the Pataudi name remained a part of the India-England cricket narrative.

However, the introduction of the Pataudi Medal has been viewed by some as a belated and insufficient gesture. Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer, for instance, described it as an "afterthought" and suggested the ECB should have announced it at the beginning to lend it more credibility. Engineer further called on the ECB to formally invite Sharmila Tagore, Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi's wife, and Saif Ali Khan, his son, to present the Pataudi Medal at the ceremony. He pointed out that the family was not invited to present the medal in the last series, drawing criticism, and expressed hope that the ECB would give them due recognition this time.

Sachin Tendulkar has spoken about the controversy, stating that the decision to retire the Pataudi Trophy rested with the BCCI and the ECB. He added that he did everything possible to ensure the Pataudi legacy was kept alive, including speaking with the Pataudi family, the BCCI, and the ECB. Tendulkar emphasized the importance of respecting his seniors and ensuring the Pataudi family's contribution to Indian cricket continues to inspire future generations.

The ECB's decision to rename the trophy and subsequently introduce the Pataudi Medal highlights the complexities of honoring cricketing legends while also respecting historical legacies. While figures like Anderson and Tendulkar are undeniably giants of the game, the Pataudi family's unique connection to both India and England gives their name a special significance in the context of this particular Test series. The ongoing discussion reflects a broader debate about how to best acknowledge the past while celebrating the present and future of cricket.