For someone who played a crucial role in India’s historic triumph on the 2003-04 tour to Pakistan, Lakshmipathy Balaji has fallen short of expectation. To be fair to the medium-pacer, though, injuries have dogged him consistently since that unforgettable tour where he endeared himself to cricket fans not just with his performances, but with his infectious smile as well.  


A stress fracture in the back ruled Balaji out of cricket in 2005, and for three years, he could hardly play any cricket. However, Balaji made a comeback despite the daunting odds and, with a remodeled action, made his presence felt in IPL 2008. Playing in the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League, Balaji took 11 wickets for Chennai Super Kings, which included a hat-trick. In recent years, his performances have become even more consistent and he even captained the Tamil Nadu side in the Ranji Trophy.