Saif Ali Khan unveils plaque at Winchester College honouring his father, Tiger Pataudi

Winchester College, founded in 1382 and one of the world’s oldest and leading independent schools honoured distinguished Old Wykehamist and one of India’s most notable cricket captains, the 9^th Nawab of Pataudi, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi (‘Tiger Pataudi’), with a commemorative plaque unveiling at the College’s historic cricket pavilion, Hunter Tent, on Saturday 13 June 2026. The event also honoured another celebrated Old Wykehamist, England cricket captain Douglas Jardine.

The ceremony took place as part of Wykeham Day, the school’s annual summer celebration, bringing together pupils, staff, families and alumni to mark the traditions of community, sport and cultural life that have defined Winchester College for more than 600 years.

Tiger Pataudi, who was a pupil at Winchester College from 1954 to 1959, went on to become one of cricket’s most admired and influential figures. As Indian captain at 21, he transformed the team’s approach to the game and is credited with instilling a new confidence and competitive spirit in Indian cricket.

Saif Ali Khan, also a Winchester College alumnus (1984-1989) attended the ceremony at his former school alongside invited guests including pupils from the College’s current cricket team.

A short address reflected on Pataudi’s life and legacy as both a cricketer and a leader, as well as his time at Winchester, where his natural sporting ability and understated character first became evident. Known for his exceptional timing, sharp fielding and composure under pressure, Pataudi earned admiration not only for his skill, but for his courage in playing his entire Test career after suffering a serious injury.

Saif Ali Khan said: “As a former pupil of Winchester College myself, it’s a great privilege to return here today to honour my father’s legacy. Winchester was where my father’s cricketing journey truly began. It was a place he spoke of with great affection, not only for the sport but for the friendships, values and experiences that shaped him. Our family is immensely proud and grateful that Winchester College has chosen to honour him in this way. We hope this plaque will inspire future generations of pupils, just as Winchester inspired him.”

Sir Richard Stagg, Warden of Winchester College, added: “Tiger Pataudi remains one of the most distinguished figures in the history of cricket, and a source of immense pride to Winchester College. He was a cricketing prodigy at the School, beating a record for runs scored in a season set by Douglas Jardine in 1919.  He went on to become a great cricketer and a leader of Indian cricket. It is especially fitting that, in honouring Tiger’s legacy, we also celebrate the deep and enduring connections between the United Kingdom and India, and our shared love of the game.”