Mumbai Indians' hopes got a big shot in the arm when their icon player and captain
Sachin Tendulkar today declared himself fully fit to play his first Indian
Premier League match against Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede stadium
here on May 14.
"Yes I will be playing the match on May 14. I feel very comfortable. It has
been tough and disappointing to have missed the two tests against South Africa
and the first seven IPL ties," Tendulkar told reporters after a strenuous
practice sessions under lights.
"It has been hard work and with help from the physio and masseuse,"
Tendulkar, who has not played a competitive match since March-end due to a groin
injury, said.
Tendulkar said though ace South African all-rounder Shaun Pollock had
done a commendable job as captain, resurrecting the team's fortunes after a
string of defeats in the first four matches, he would take over the reins now
that he is fit.
"Shaun Pollock was the makeshift captain and has done a terrific
job but I will be captaining the side," Tendulkar said.
He will open the innings with Sri Lankan ace Sanath Jayasuriya for the Mumbai
Indians against Chennai, Tendulkar said.
The batsman however refused to be drawn into comments over off-spinner Harbhajan
Singh who has been banned from the IPL for slapping S Sreesanth after the Mumbai
Indians match against Punjab Kings XI at Mohali.
"It is a past chapter. Let's put it behind and look ahead," Tendulkar
said.
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