High expectations from foreign players normal - Laxman

VVS Laxman, the Deccan Chargers captain, believes high expectations from foreign players who were auctioned for astronomical prices is only normal. "It is no different with the foreign recruits in the team as we always feel the pressure when we play in the English county set-up," Laxman told the Hindu.

Laxman also said the rule that teams could have only four foreign players in the XI was one that spelt opportunities for the others. "It provides huge opportunities for the domestic players to rub shoulders with some of the best. No doubt, selection will be a little difficult as all the foreign players are classy ones."

Deccan's star batsman Andrew Symonds has had unpleasant run-ins with Indian players during Australia's ODI series in India and subsequently India's tour of Australia but Laxman was not worried about any further controversies cropping up. "What is important is the immediate future. Every player is focused on the IPL and nothing else right now. Fortunately, I have a personal rapport with all the players and keep interacting with them. It should be comparatively easier for me to handle any situation on the field."

Laxman said though he had hoped his players would have at least 10 days to get used to each other, he was happy with the way everyone had quickly settled down. "The process of gelling has been going on for the last three days. We would have wished for a 10-day camp before the event but because of international commitments, it was not possible. Coach Robin [Singh] has done his homework and is armed with all relevant inputs to ensure that the team clicks as a unit.

"This is an event where useful contributions from all the 11 players can have a huge impact on the end result. We need not look for an individual to come up with a big knock or a five-wicket haul." Deccan's first game is against the Kolkata Knightriders at Eden Gardens on Sunday.