Mumbai Indians' skipper Rohit Sharma dedicates IPL title to Sachin Tendulkar

Calcutta: Bringing the curtains down on yet another stage of his life is glorious, cricket great Sachin Tendulkar Sunday Goodbye try to Indian Premier League at Eden Gardens and the creator, moments after lifting his team Mumbai Indians to their maiden title.

"This is my post IPL. You have taken the decision before the start of the tournament," said Tendulkar, 40, in a way actually, two days after his illustrious former teammate India Rahul Dravid called it quits from the cash-rich league.

Tendulkar, who retired from ODIs in December of last year, and missed the final on Sunday against two-time champions Chennai Super Kings due to a left wrist injury he picked up May 13 while batting against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"I've waited 21 years to win the World Cup for the first time in six years for IPL. Has been a wonderful and unforgettable trip with the team," said Tendulkar, who received the Grand farewell was also lifted by his team mates before the customary victory lap.

There was a murmur among the Mumbai Indian players to pose for a photo with him. During a group photo session for the team with the trophy, the players ensured that Tendulkar was at the center. His wife Anjali joined in the celebrations very little later.

But the best gesture came from Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma, who described the victory as the perfect farewell gift to the batting genius.

"It was disappointing not to have Sachin in the last few games. However, we are happy that we can give him the perfect farewell by winning the title," said Sharma.

Tendulkar was all smiles, but also nostalgic trifle. He said he does not forget his countless admirers.

"This is the perfect time to say thank you to Ansari and well-wishers," said Tendulkar.

"We have to be realistic about it. Has played six seasons with the Indians in Mumbai and I enjoyed it completely. This was the best season for Mumbai Indians. Prior to this, the year 2010 was the best season," he said.

Tendulkar scored 2,334 runs averaging 34.83 in 78 matches IPL. He had a strike rate 119.81 and hit one century and 13 fifties.

"I think this is the right time to stop playing IPL.'m 40 years old, and got to accept it," Tendulkar said.

Friday night, Dravid had announced his retirement from the IPL after his team Rajasthan Royals went down to Mumbai Indians in the playoffs.

A few days ago, as announced by the Australian legend Adam Gilchrist for his decision to quit playing in the tournament.