Laxminarayan Balasubramaniyan

Laxminarayan Balasubramaniyan, affectionately known as Lakshmi by his teammates, was born on 22nd May 1980 in the bustling city of Chennai, India. His journey to cricketing prominence is as captivating as a thrilling test match that ebbs and flows until the last delivery. Like countless Indian youngsters, Lakshmi fell in love with cricket amidst dusty playgrounds where he honed his bowling skills with unmatched dedication and relentless perseverance.

Growing up, Lakshmi was always the shorter kid on the block, but with a fierce determination that belied his size. His early years were filled with club matches and district-level tournaments, where his potential as a bowler began to come into sharp focus. His adaptability was his calling card—whether swinging the ball under humid conditions or making it seam on a placid surface, Lakshmi was a quick learner. It wasn't long before selectors took notice, earning him a place in the state team by his late teens.

Lakshmi's professional debut was nothing short of spectacular, as he snared five wickets in his maiden first-class match, announcing his arrival on the big stage. His career was marked by numerous achievements, most notably being a key figure in leading his team to two Ranji Trophy victories. Fans remember the 2008 final, where his four-wicket haul in the second innings turned the game around, cementing his reputation as a match-winner.

As he climbed the ranks, rivalries took centre stage—most intense was his on-field duel with Hyderabad's explosive batsman, Ravi Teja. Their encounters were the stuff of legends, with each outing a palpable blend of tension and respect. Lakshmi's ability to dart the ball both ways kept batsmen guessing, while his clever use of variations and angles on the crease made him a nightmare to face.

Despite being a bowler first and foremost, Lakshmi was no slouch with the bat, exhibiting a tailored approach at the crease. He was the kind of lower-order batsman who could baffle bowlers with unexpectedly delicate shots when all seemed lost.

Few can forget when he hit a last-ball six to clinch a thrilling game against Karnataka, demonstrating that his impact wasn't confined to just one aspect of the game—it was indeed all-encompassing. Lakshmi Balasubramaniyan has left an indelible mark on cricket, a testament to his skill, adaptability, and passion for this beloved sport.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats