Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy launch put off in respect for Ahmedabad crash victims

The scheduled grand unveiling of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, intended to symbolize the pinnacle of achievement in the England-India bilateral Test series held in England, has been delayed. This decision to postpone the event, or potentially cancel it entirely, reflects the somber atmosphere prevailing in India after the devastating Ahmedabad plane crash.

The decision was taken by the two boards at the last minute to call off the grand launch for the time being. © Getty

Cricbuzz sources confirm that the trophy-naming ceremony was initially slated for Saturday, June 14th, coinciding with the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have mutually agreed to call off the event, which was to be hosted at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.

"Considering the tragic events in India, the announcement will be delayed out of respect for the lives lost," a high-ranking ECB official disclosed to Cricbuzz on Saturday. Officials from both the BCCI and ECB are collaborating to determine a suitable new date. "The BCCI is still evaluating the appropriate time for the announcement, which has been kept flexible due to the tragedy," the ECB official added.

The tragic crash of Air India flight AI-171 near Ahmedabad Airport on Thursday, June 12th, resulted in the loss of over 275 lives, including 241 passengers and crew, marking it as one of India's most severe aviation disasters.

Invitations had already been extended to key figures, including Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson, for the trophy launch on Saturday. The decision to postpone the event was finalized at the last moment.

Pataudi Legacy to be Honored

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will replace the Pataudi Trophy, previously awarded to the winners of the bilateral Test series in England. Cricbuzz reported on March 31st that the ECB had decided to retire the Pataudi Trophy, formally communicating this decision to the Pataudi family.

However, following a request from Sachin Tendulkar, the ECB appears to have reconsidered its position. Tendulkar is understood to have engaged with BCCI and ECB officials to advocate for the continuation of the Pataudi legacy. Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary and current Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), played a crucial role in ensuring the Pataudi name remains associated with the bilateral contests.

An ECB official confirmed this decision, stating, "Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series." It is anticipated that a medallion, named in honor of the late MAK Pataudi, will be awarded to the winning captain.