Franchise owners played down the fact that no Pakistani player and only two from Australia were bought in the auction for the third edition of the IPL.

By Rajarshi Gupta in Mumbai

While the Australians had been threatened by Shiv Sena, Pakistan's cricketers were under the scanner too as they were not sure about getting visas.

However, two Bollywood divas, Shilpa Shetty (Rajasthan Royals) and Preity Zinta (Kings XI Punjab) were nonchalant and said not selecting Pakistan and Aussie cricketers had nothing to do with fear.

It was strategy, they said.

Modi, flanked by Shetty and Zinta deflected the tight corner situations to the team owners, who in turn played their role to the last detail.

"I am very happy with our buy. We were in touch with Shane (Warne) constantly and we went by what he told us. I have got all the players I wanted," said Shilpa, who co-owns the Rajasthan team with husband Raj Kundra.

Shilpa reiterated it was all a part of deep-rooted strategy. Not buying Pakistan all-rounder Sohail Tanvir, who was the highest wicket-taker for the Royals in the first edition did not seem too hard on the actress.

Zinta and Kings XI Punjab co-owner also stressed that their decisions were not influenced by threats.

Modi decided to dismiss the matter as elegantly as the heat in the media room allowed him to: "India is a safe country and there is no threat," before gesturing to the next reporter.