Legendary Indian cricketer Kapil Dev has reacted to the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) decision to rename the Pataudi Trophy. From now on, the winner of the India-England Test series in England will receive the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, in honour of James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.

Speaking at an event on Wednesday, Kapil expressed surprise at the move. He said the decision felt unusual and unexpected. The event, organised by Three Sixty, celebrated Kapil’s unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe during the 1983 World Cup.

"It feels a little strange… like, does this also happen? But that's okay, everything works in cricket. At the end of the day, there is no difference. Cricket is cricket. The cricket on the field should be the same," he said.

History Behind the Pataudi Trophy

The Pataudi Trophy was introduced in 2007. It was named after Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, one of India's most respected captains, to honour the deep cricketing ties between India and England.

His father, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, also played for both England and India, making the Pataudi family a unique and respected name in cricket history.

Many fans and former players criticised the ECB for changing the trophy’s name. Reports suggest that even Sachin Tendulkar and ICC chairman Jay Shah requested the ECB to reconsider the decision.

Despite the backlash, the ECB has decided to keep the Pataudi Medal for Excellence. This individual honour will go to the captain of the winning team and is meant to preserve the Pataudi legacy in some form.

Kapil’s Advice to Shubman Gill as India Enters New Test Era

This Test series marks a big change for the Indian team. After Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their retirements from Test cricket last month, Shubman Gill, at just 25 years old, is expected to take on a bigger role.

Kapil had some encouraging words for the young batter. He said Gill should focus on playing freely without worrying about pressure.

"There are no expectations. Just go, play, express yourself. That's more important," Kapil advised.

India Looks to Rewrite History in England

India’s five-match Test series against England will begin on June 20 at Leeds. The team will try to win a Test series in England for the first time since 2007, when the Pataudi Trophy was first awarded.