Sunil Gavaskar’s Interesting Suggestion to Team India Cricketers
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly considering discontinuing the Pataudi Trophy, which is currently awarded to the winner of the Test series between India and England played in England. According to available information, the ECB is contemplating replacing the trophy with a new one named after legendary players from both countries. However, the reason behind this decision has not been disclosed.
There is speculation that a new trophy with a different name could be introduced for the upcoming bilateral Test series between India and England, scheduled for June and July this year. The ECB is said to be in discussions about finalizing a new title to honour great players from both nations.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has responded to these reports and opposed the idea of scrapping the Pataudi Trophy. Speaking on the matter, Sunil Gavaskar said, “This is the first time I am hearing about a trophy named after an individual being cancelled after its institution.”
Although the decision appears to be that of the ECB, Sunil Gavaskar stated that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might be aware of the developments. He remarked that the contributions of the Pataudi family to India-England cricket relations were being overlooked through this decision.
Sunil Gavaskar also addressed the Indian cricket community directly, urging legendary players who have recently retired to politely decline if the ECB approaches them regarding naming a new trophy after them. He said that such a gesture would reflect respect for the Pataudi family. Gavaskar further noted that by doing so, current and future cricketers could avoid facing similar situations themselves.
The Pataudi Trophy was instituted by the England and Wales Cricket Board in 2007 in honour of former Indian cricketer Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. Since its inception, the trophy has been awarded to the winner of the Test series when India tours England.