IPL 2012: Sachin Tendulkar hands over Mumbai Indians' captaincy to Harbhajan Singh

Sachin Tendulkar on Monday, handed over the captaincy of Mumbai Indians to Harbhajan Singh.

Terming Mumbai Indians franchise as a family, Tendulkar said the decision was taken after due consideration. "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," he said.

Tendulkar said that he had consulted with Nita and Mukesh Ambani, owners of Mumbai Indians. "I was touched by the graciousness and wholehearted support they offered me while emphasising that they would accept any decision which helps me to continue enjoying the game."

The decision was a difficult moment for Nita Ambani who however, said that Tendulkar was the best judge on such matters. "It was a very difficult moment when Sachin expressed his desire to relinquish the 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 will now lead the side in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League and he said it was an honour for him. "Sachin Paaji spoke to me about his decision of wanting me to take over the responsibility of the team. It is huge honour and I thank Paaji and Nita Bhabhi for the faith reposed in my abilities," he said. Harbhajan has the distinction of having led the team to triumph in the Champions League Twenty20 last year.

Mumbai Indians play their first match of IPL against Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday. ( Click here for IPL fixtures)