Sharmila Tagore was left disappointed by BCCI's decision to retire the trophy named after her late husband and ace cricketer, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
Actress, Sharmila Tagore and cricketer, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi made headlines with their wedding back in 1968. The union was arguably the centre of all reports, with cinema and cricket being two of the most loved aspects of Indian society. While Mansoor passed away in 2011, he continued to live in the hearts of cricket fans, and the 'Pataudi Trophy' soon became a testament to his contribution to the cricket world. However, BCCI and ECB's alleged plan to retire the trophy has left the Pataudi family hurt.
'Tiger' Pataudi's legacy has always been acknowledged and respected. However, the decision made by The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reportedly upset the late cricketer's wife, Sharmila Tagore. While the decision is yet to be finalised, it is reported that the community has already notified Sharmila and her son, Saif Ali Khan, about the alleged decision. The actress has also expressed his displeasure with the motion after Saif was sent a letter by the ECB.
Talking to the Hindustan Times, Sharmila Tagore expressed her disappointment. She shared that she hasn't heard from the BCCI, but the ECB has sent a letter to her and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi's son, Saif Ali Khan, about retiring the trophy. She added that if BCCI wants to do so or doesn't want to remember Tiger's legacy, it's for them to decide. She also expressed her hurt over the same and stated:
"I haven't heard from them, but the ECB has sent a letter to Saif that they are retiring the trophy. If the BCCI wants to or does not want to remember Tiger's legacy, it is for them to decide."
The 'Pataudi Trophy' is an esteemed prize awarded to the winner of the Test cricket series between England and India. The trophy not only honours Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi's contribution to the cricket world but also his father, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi's legacy. The trophy was first introduced in 2007, commemorating 75 years since the first test match between the two countries. The trophy was designed and made by esteemed silver and goldsmith, Jocelyn Burton.
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi was a right-hand batsman and medium-pace bowler. He was a schoolboy batting prodigy at Winchester. Mansoor was a phenomenal cricketer, but he got into an accident in Hove that permanently damaged his right eye. The damage caused Mansoor to see a double image, and he feared his cricket career was about to end. However, less than six months later, he made his Test debut against England in 1961, helping the country win their first series against England. His passion for the sport and dedication made him one of the greatest players in the country. Mansoor was called the 'best fielder in the world' of his time by commentator, John Arlott and former England captain and contemporary, Ted Dexter.
What are your thoughts on Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi's trophy being retired by BCCI and ECB?
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