Mumbai, April 9 (IANS): Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar Wednesday was named the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Mumbai Indians's icon.

The Indians are the defending IPL champions and two-time Champions League Twenty20 winners.

"Sachin has been an integral part of Mumbai Indians and a source of inspiration for the team ever since the inception. It was a fitting finale to Sachin last season when we dedicated the IPL as well as CLT20 trophies as tribute to the legend," said team owner Nita M. Ambani.

"We are very happy to recognise him as the Mumbai Indians icon. I am sure the youngsters in the team will be delighted to have him around for guidance and so would be the Mumbai Indians fans."

The batting great said he is delighted to continue his association with the team.

"I have been a part of the Mumbai Indians team since its inception and I am delighted to continue my association. This season with Mumbai Indians will be a different experience for me and I look forward to closely interacting with the experienced support staff and sharing my learnings with the exciting youngsters in the team," said Tendulkar.

The former Indians captain has also expressed his desire to be part of the Mumbai Indians’ ‘Education For All’ initiative. Led by Nita Ambani, the initiative stands for equal and rightful education opportunities for underprivileged children and has been able to meaningfully impact over 30,000 kids from various NGOs.

"Mumbai Indians was one of the first teams to recognise the potential of using its worldwide fan base to enhance awareness about a compelling social issue. 'Education for All' is an initiative which has been personally nurtured by Mrs. Nita Ambani and each one of us at Mumbai Indians is a passionate believer in this initiative. I am committed to working with the team at Mumbai Indians in spreading the message of ‘Education for All’ across the country and beyond," added Tendulkar.