Analyst Lakshmi keeps himself busy during lockdown

Part of a profession that involves service indoors round the year, the Chennai-based is going about his business even at a time when the entire sporting world has been forced to a halt because of the coronavirus. “It is my duty to spot talent for different leagues.

Generally, I don’t like to waste time. So, I am using it to work more – collect and analyse data in my laptop. I always try to keep myself active and engaged,” Lakshmi told DT Next.

Although he is unsure of when competitive cricket would resume, the backroom staff is working his socks off for his employers in the Indian Premier League, Tamil Nadu Premier League and Caribbean Premier League. “My job starts much before the beginning of tournaments.

I will have to be prepared if and when they happen [after the pandemic],” he said. With India continuing to remain under lockdown in the duel against the deadly virus, a number of citizens’ daily lives have been disrupted. Asked if he is facing any difficulty on the job front owing to COVID-19, Lakshmi responded, “At times, I require the help of my back end team. There are data which can be understood only when you discuss them in person. Obviously, I can’t do that right now as my colleagues are elsewhere.”

A widely-known figure in the industry, Lakshmi is usually on the road for about eight to nine months as a result of his involvement in various competitions in India, Bangladesh, Canada and the West Indies. Restricted right now to the boundaries of his residence, the analyst revealed he is enjoying life with his loved one.

“I am spending quality time with my wife Akansha. Only when you are at home, you get to know about the struggle the family undergoes,” he added. Lakshmi, who has lifted so many silverwares thus far in his illustrious career, possesses a heart of gold.

“I stay at Madipakkam with Akansha while my parents are at Chrompet. During the off-season, I try to help people who reside in those areas. In times of need, I either give money or buy groceries. It is something I, along with a couple of others, like to do when we are away from work,” concluded Lakshmi, who was a support staff when Virat Kohli-led India bagged the Under-19 World Cup title in 2008.