Gavaskar Takes Aim at ECB Over Naming of India-England Test Series

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed strong reservations over the naming of the ongoing five-match Test series between India and England as the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Gavaskar argued that Sachin Tendulkar's name should appear before James Anderson's, citing Tendulkar's seniority and vastly superior achievements in international cricket. He dismissed the reasoning that names were ordered alphabetically and took particular aim at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for their decision.

Key Takeaways:

• Gavaskar believes Sachin Tendulkar's name should come before James Anderson's in the naming of the Test series, citing Tendulkar's seniority and achievements in international cricket.
• Tendulkar is considered one of the greatest Indian cricketers, with more runs and centuries in Test cricket than any other player, and is also part of a World Cup-winning team.
• James Anderson is third in the list of wicket takers in Test cricket, but his record away from English conditions is not as good as Tendulkar's is.
• Gavaskar suggests that Indian fans and the media should refer to the series as the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy, flipping the current order to reflect what he believes is the more appropriate recognition.
• Gavaskar also questioned the logic behind the Pataudi Medal of Excellence, which is currently awarded to the captain of the series-winning team, suggesting that it would be better to have a separate medal for the man of the match for every Test.

Statistics:

• Sachin Tendulkar has scored more runs and centuries in Test cricket than any other player.
• James Anderson is third in the list of wicket takers in Test cricket.
• Tendulkar is also part of a World Cup-winning team, while Anderson has not.
• The ECB is responsible for naming the Test series, but Gavaskar believes their decision is "jarring" for Indian cricket lovers.

Sources:

• Gavaskar's column in Mid-Day, cited by TOI Sports Desk.