Sachin Tendulkar Takes Centrestage at Eden Gardens Ahead of IPL 8 Opener

Sachin Tendulkar took the centrestage at the Eden Gardens as the Mumbai Indians 'icon' was seen giving a pep talk to his team before getting into a long chat with RCB skipper Virat Kohli ahead of the IPL 8 opener on Wednesday. (Complete IPL Coverage)

The legendary Indian, who played his penultimate and career's 199th Test here two years ago, landed this morning and joined the boys straightway at Eden Gardens on the eve of their IPL opener against Kolkata Knight Riders.

Clad in team jersey and shorts, Tendulkar remained at the ground for the entire two-hour long practice and gave attention to all the 26 Mumbai Indians players. (Young Indians who Promise to Make a Mark)

But the photographer's delight came later in the day when Royal Challengers Bangalore too checked in as Kohli got engaged in a long conversation with the iconic Indian.

RCB, who start their campaign against Knight Riders on April 11, practised alongside the star-studded Mumbai Indians with coach Ricky Ponting. (Tendulkar Offers Advice to Rohit and Kohli)

Terming Tendulkar as an integral part of their side, Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma said: "He's been part of Mumbai Indians for the last seven years now."

Sharma said Tendulkar's visit was not a surprise at all.

"He's been an integral part of team ever since he started playing for MI and he continues to be. Whenever we need him, he's always there for us.

"It was just a strategy for tomorrow's game. He was just sharing his thoughts. Nothing much," Sharma signed off.