JP Duminy is thrilled to be playing in the Indian Premier League, despite a below-par start to his career with the Mumbai Indians.

"The match was an overwhelming success from a team point of view," the 25-year-old wrote in his Cape Times column. "To start on a winning note just allowed the team to gel very quickly, especially for the new players like me.

"Sachin (Tendulkar) played incredibly well and having the opportunity to bat with him is something I'll always cherish.

"Personally, the game didn't go too well as I was out just when I was starting to hit the ball well.

"Getting out to a short ball also wasn't nice as I know there were people saying, 'JP can't hook'. But I assure you it's not a problem area in my game, although I am working hard on eradicating the risk attached to the shot."

However, with his heavy IPL price-tag comes pressure and Duminy admits he is feeling it.

He continued: "It was obviously a dream of mine to be part of the IPL. Of course I didn't expect that price tag, but I am very chuffed to be here.

"It is an amazing feeling to be in a team with such big reputations. But it is pressurising to come in at three or four and bat behind Jayasuriya and Tendulkar, especially considering their quality and experience."

The Cobras star, whose side face the table-topping Deccan Chargers in their next game tomorrow, says everyone in the side have made him feel at home.

He added: "The boys have really made me feel welcome and so has (team owner Mukesh) Mr Ambani.

"I am really looking forward to the challenges ahead."