
Rivalry between India & England has always been special: Anderson
The rivalry between India and England is one of the most storied and intense in the world of cricket. The two nations have been battling it out on the pitch for decades, with each series producing unforgettable moments that are etched in the memories of cricket fans forever. Recently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, a new honor that recognizes the legendary rivalry between the two teams. Ex-England bowler James Anderson, who was present at the unveiling, spoke about the special nature of the rivalry and how it’s an honor to have it named after him and the great Sachin Tendulkar.
Anderson, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of the game, has had the privilege of facing some of the greatest players India has produced. He has faced the likes of Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and V.V.S. Laxman, among others, and has always spoken highly of the skill and determination of Indian players. Anderson has also been part of some of the most intense and memorable series between England and India, including the 2011 series that saw England win 4-0 and the 2014 series that was tied 1-1.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Anderson said, “It’s a proud moment for me and my family to have the India-England Test series named after Tendulkar and myself. It’s an honour to be recognised this way. The rivalry between India and England has always been special, full of history, intensity and unforgettable moments. I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of some of those moments, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played against such a great team.”
Anderson’s comments are a testament to the enduring nature of the rivalry between India and England. The two teams have a long history of competing against each other, dating back to the early days of cricket. The first Test match between the two teams was played in 1932, and since then, they have played each other more than 100 times.
One of the most memorable aspects of the India-England rivalry is the intensity and passion that the players bring to the game. Both teams have a strong following and a deep sense of national pride, which makes every match between them a highly charged and competitive affair. The rivalry is also marked by a deep sense of respect and admiration between the players, who often speak highly of each other’s skills and achievements.
Anderson is one of the few players who has been part of both the England and India teams. He made his debut for England in 2003 and went on to play 19 Test matches for the team, taking 85 wickets. He has also been an active member of the England team that has competed against India in several series over the years.
Tendulkar, on the other hand, is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the game. He played 24 Test matches against England, scoring 2,776 runs at an average of 46.64. He was part of several iconic moments in the India-England rivalry, including the 2002 series that saw India win 2-1 and the 2007 series that was tied 1-1.
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is a fitting tribute to the legendary rivalry between India and England. It is a symbol of the respect and admiration that the players have for each other, as well as the intensity and competitiveness of the matches that they play. The trophy will be presented to the winner of the India-England Test series, which will be played in England in 2025.
In conclusion, the rivalry between India and England is a special one that has a long history and a deep sense of intensity and passion. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is a fitting tribute to the legendary players who have been part of this rivalry, and it will be a source of inspiration for future generations of cricketers.