Kolkata: Team mentor Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday said Mumbai Indians never doubted they could turn it around after the team’s disastrous start to this season’s Indian Premier League.
Mumbai stormed to the IPL title on Sunday, beating Chennai Super Kings by 41 runs in a one-sided final at Eden Gardens.
India legend Tendulkar said: “No I don’t think there were any self doubts when we had a bad start because our batting was capable of playing some mega innings.
“Lasith Malinga has been the leading bowler in all IPLs, So, it was about key players getting the momentum.
Well done MI @mipaltan @sachin_rt @pragyanojha @ImRo45 lead from the front!! pic.twitter.com/k1ENGvRoj9— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) May 24, 2015
“We always had the belief of a turnaround.
“We stepped together, worked hard, executed our plans. It was about how we stayed together during tough times.
“These are the occasions you play cricket for and it was all about executing your plans.”
Talking about his role in the team, Tendulkar said he only stepped in and gave advice when it was needed.
“The support staff has been doing a good job and as and when I felt something, I would share with the batters,” he said.
“Basically, it was being around and as and when my inputs were required.
“Overall I felt it was terrific turnaround as we did not had best of the starts.”
Team chief mentor Anil Kumble credited skipper Rohit Sharma for leading from the front.
“Winning the IPL means a lot,” he said.
“Credit to the boys for the way they played. Rohit led the team from the front and today was an example of that. It’s a fantastic team effort and the credit also goes to the support staff.”
Coach Ricky Ponting said winning the IPL crown was a special moment.
“I told the players before the match that it has been special couple of months in my life and if we can cap off with a win here today then it will be the most memorable one,” he said.
“Full credit to the boys for the way they turned things around.”
