Somdev Devvarman Wary of Pressure While Playing in India

India's No. 2 men's singles player Somdev Devvarman said the intense criticism that any player faces if he or she loses while in the national colours only increases the pressure while playing in India. (Bopanna feels India can qualify for the World Group)

"There is always pressure to perform. If you are an Indian athlete, then you are liable to a lot of negative press. No matter what you do, there is always pressure to perform in India. That's just the way it is," said Devvarman, who will be playing in the Davis Cup World Group Playoff  against the Czech Republic this weekend, on Tuesday. (Amritraj says Paes, Bopanna add 'scare factor')

"There is an upside to that as well. We perform well, we are welcomed very nicely. This is something we have been experiencing for the past few years, it is at the back of the mind."

India will take on the 2013 runners-up Czech Republic from September 18 to 20 at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) complex. With a win, the hosts can qualify for the elite World Group.

"We are improving for sure. Even I am getting better every time I play. Our team is definitely getting stronger. Hopefully, we will be able to get this tie and give ourselves a good shot at the World Group," said Devvarman.