What did Sachin Tendulkar learn from Test cricket?

 New Delhi: Legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar called red-ball cricket the highest form of the game — one that teaches endurance, discipline, and adaptability. The 52-year-old credited Test cricket with laying the foundation of his career.

“For me, Test cricket embodies life — you give your best, and if things go wrong, it gives you another day to regroup, think, unlearn, and bounce back. It is the highest form of the game that teaches you endurance, discipline, and adaptability, against all odds. I owe my foundation to Test cricket, as it has seen me grow from disappointments to triumphs, from aspirations to fulfilment,” Tendulkar said ahead of the five- Test series between India and England

The India-England series has now been renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in honour of Tendulkar and former England pacer James Anderson, replacing the Pataudi Trophy. Tendulkar expressed hope that Test cricket will “traverse boundaries yet untrodden.”

“India and England have played a big role in shaping Test cricket in a way that it remains an evolving inspiration for subsequent generations. And now, as I share this recognition with my on-field challenger and an off-field gentleman, James, I hope that the world celebrates the essence of Test cricket even more, allowing it to traverse boundaries yet untrodden,” he said.

The decision to retire the Pataudi Trophy was jointly made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI).

England pacer James Anderson said, “It’s a proud moment for me and my family to have this iconic series named after Sachin and myself. The rivalry between our two nations has always been something special, full of history, intensity, and unforgettable moments.

 “To be recognised in this way is a real honour. I’m looking forward to seeing the next chapter unfold in England this summer. It promises to be compelling, competitive cricket — exactly what you’d expect from two great sides. This is elite sport at its finest.”

BCCI President Roger Binny called the occasion “truly momentous,” saying, “To rename the prestigious Test series between India and England after two absolute titans of the game, Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson, is a fitting tribute to their unparalleled contributions.

ECB Chair Richard Thompson said: “Jimmy and Sachin have given cricket fans around the world so many unforgettable moments, and it is fitting that their names will now be part of every men’s Test series between England and India.

“The Pataudi family also has a hugely important place in the cricketing connections between our countries, and I'm pleased that we will continue to honour their legacy through the awarding of the Pataudi Medal, which will be provided to the winning captain,” Thompson added.

—   IANS