Kolkata, April 7 (IANS): Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday was the cynosure of all eyes as the Mumbai Indians (MI) icon spent time with his boys ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) opener against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Garden here on Wednesday.

Besides having a long chat with Mumbai skipper Rohit Sharma, Tendulkar was also seen conversing with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli.

Both MI and RCB hit the nets at the hallowed stadium. RCB take on KKR at the Eden on Sunday.

Under the observing eyes of Australian coach Ricky Ponting, Mumbai players Lasith Malinga and Aaron Finch slogged hard at the nets as Tendulkar and Rohit were busy chatting.

"He was sharing his thoughts about the strategy for tomorrow's game," Rohit later said about his conservation with Tendulkar.

"Sachin has been an integral part of the team ever since he started playing for MI and whenever we need him he is always there for us."