Sachin quits, Bhajji to lead Mumbai Indians

Sachin Tendulkar relinquished the captaincy of Mumbai Indians on Monday and handed over charge to Harbhajan Singh, who led the side to the Champions League Twenty20 crown last season when the master batsman was injured. Let Tendulkar play freely: Harbhajan Singh | Captain Bhajji | IPL schedule 2012

Sachin Tendulkar relinquished the captaincy of Mumbai Indians on Monday and handed over charge to Harbhajan Singh, who led the side to the Champions League Twenty20 crown last season when the master batsman was injured.

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Though Tendulkar, being the icon player, has been MI captain since the league's inception, he missed out on half of MI's matches in the first edition due to a right groin injury. And then during the victorious CLT20 campaign last year, Harbhajan, who led in the first three matches in the inaugural edition of the IPL, replaced Tendulkar at the helm.

"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 captaincy to Harbhajan with the MI management. Harbhajan will have my whole-hearted support as the senior most player in the team," Tendulkar said in a MI statement. IPL schedule 2012

There was some doubt whether Tendulkar would play in the IPL after he dashed to London to see a specialist for his right big toe problem, but an MI spokesperson clarified there was no doubt over his availability for the entire season.

Harbhajan said, "Sachin spoke to me about his decision. It is a huge honour and I thank him and the management for the faith reposed in my abilities. Mumbai Indians is a great team with explosive talent and promising youngsters. I am committed to do the very best and look forward to leading the team to play to its full potential during the season." Mumbai Indians play hosts CSK on Wednesday.