Sachin Tendulkar quits as Captain of Mumbai Indians

The fifth edition of the IPL will see a change in guard for the Mumbai Indians franchise as Sachin Tendulkar relinquished the captaincy of the Mumbai franchise. After leading the Mumbai Indians for four years, Sachin Tendulkar has now handed over the captaincy reigns to Harbhajan Singh, today.

Terming Mumbai Indians as a family, Tendulkar said, “The Mumbai Indians is more than a team. It is like a family to me. At this point of time, I feel I need a break from the responsibility of captaincy of the Mumbai Indians. After due consideration, I discussed my intention to hand over the Captain-ship of the team to Harbhajan Singh.”

Tendulkar also mentioned that he had consulted with the owners of the Mumbai Indians franchise, Nita and Mukesh Ambani, before relinquishing his responsibility.

“I was touched by the graciousness and wholehearted support they offered me while emphasizing that they would accept any decision which helps me to continue enjoying the game.” Tendulkar added.

Reacting to Tendulkar’s decision, Nita Ambani said that though it was a difficult moment for the side, Tendulkar was the best judge on these matters.

“It was a very difficult moment when Sachin expressed his desire to relinquish captaincy. But we believe that Sachin is the best judge on such matters and hence, as always, we fully support his decision,” she said.

Harbhajan Singh, who will now lead the side in the fifth edition of Indian Premier League said that it would be an honor for him to lead the Mumbai side.

“Sachin Paaji spoke to me about his decision of wanting me to take over the responsibility of the team. It is a huge honor and I thank Paaji and Nita Bhabhi for the faith reposed in my abilities,” he said.

Harbhajan Singh, however, is no stranger to captaincy because it was under his leadership that the Mumbai Indians won the 2011 Champions League T20 despite missing Sachin Tendulkar and a few other stars due to injury. The Mumbai team has failed to win the IPL in the first four years, coming closest in 2010 – when they lost the final to the Super Kings.

With a the “Turbanator” at the helm, this season could well be the year they end their drought.