Sachin Tendulkar hands over Mumbai Indians captaincy to Harbhajan Singh

Mumbai, Apr. 2 (ANI): Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar on Monday handed over the captaincy of Mumbai Indians in the fifth version of Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament to off-spinner Harbhajan Singh.

According to reports, the latest decision came following a conversation with the management of Mumbai Indians, a Mumbai-based IPL franchise owned by IndiaWin Sports Pvt. Ltd, a group company of Reliance Industries Ltd.

Tendulkar said the judgment was taken after due thought. "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 liability of captaincy of the Mumbai Indians. After due consideration, I discussed my meaning to hand over the Captain-ship of the team to Harbhajan Singh," said Tendulkar in the media release.

"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," he added. Harbhajan on his part said it was a huge honor for him.

IPL 2012 will be played at 12 venues over 54 days in India. Starting from April 4 to May 27, there will be 72 matches in the fifth season of IPL. (ANI)