Sachin Tendulkar is currently in discussions with Mumbai Indians about relinquishing his role as captain ahead of the new Indian Premier League season.
The 38-year-old, who will hand over the captaincy to teammate Harbhajan Singh before the season's opener on Wednesday, has cited needing a break as his reason for stepping down.
Tendulkar said: "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 captainship of the team to Harbhajan Singh, with Mukeshbhai and Nitabhabhi.
"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."
Tendulkar is the leading run-scorer and century-maker in Test and one-day international cricket and was also the first player to score a double century in ODI cricket.
