Former Team India cricketer Farokh Engineer said that the England Cricket Board has erred in handling the renaming of the India-England Test series and the decision to introduce a `Pataudi Medal` to the winning captain was an afterthought to satisfy the supporters like him.
“It (introducing Pataudi medal) was obviously an afterthought, they should have announced it in the beginning that would have more credibility but at least they have done something. Common sense has prevailed and hope the Pataudi name always remains,” said Engineer.
He further expressed disappointment at removing his friend`s name associated with the trophy.
“On one hand, I was very disappointed that the Pataudi name was removed, I would love Tiger`s name to go on, but instead powers that be decided with Anderson and Sachin, who are legends of the game,” said the former cricketer.
He recollected the time when he was pleased for the India-England rivalry being named after Tiger Pataudi.
“Well Tiger Pataudi was a great friend of mine. Great colleague of mine. We played a lot of Test cricket. Great heritage, great family. I was most happy when the trophy was named after him back in 2007,” said the 87-year-old.
Like Sunil Gavaskar, even Engineer was left disappointed, but also stated that the contributions of Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson are undeniable.
“…the achievements of Tendulkar and Anderson can`t be argued against. There are two sides to the story. They have named the medal after Pataudis which is a very thoughtful thing. That must be a second choice to appease a lot of Pataudi supporters of which I am one but you can`t blame them for naming the trophy after Sachin and Anderson,” he said.
The Pataudis have deep ties to the India-England cricketing landscape. Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son Mansur both captained India, and both played county cricket in England.
Farokh Engineer further wants the ECB and BCCI to invite Mansur Khan`s wife, Sharmila Tagore and his son, Saif Ali Khan to present the medal.
“The whole issue is debatable but they have kept the name. I hope they invite Sharmila Tagore (Mansur`s wife) and his son Saif Ali Khan to present the medal. Last series they didn`t do that. Fingers were pointed at ECB for that. Hopefully they give them due credit,” concluded Engineer.
(With PTI Inputs)
