Lakshmipathy Balaji, often known simply as Balaji, is a former Indian cricketer who primarily played as a rightarm mediumfast bowler. He was born on September 27, 1981, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Balaji gained prominence for his ability to swing the ball both ways and his cheerful demeanor on the field, which made him a popular figure among fans. He made his international debut for India in 2002 and quickly became a vital part of the Indian bowling attack, particularly in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches.

Balaji's career highlights include his impressive performances during India's tour of Pakistan in 2004, where his bowling played a crucial role in India's historic Test series victory. He was known for his ability to bowl long spells and his knack for picking up crucial wickets at important junctures in the game. His contributions were also significant in the 2003 Cricket World Cup.

Unfortunately, Balaji's career was hampered by recurring injuries, particularly stress fractures in his back, which forced him to spend considerable time away from the game. Despite these setbacks, he made several comebacks to the Indian team, showcasing his resilience and determination. After his international career waned, Balaji continued to play domestic cricket and also participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing teams like the Chennai Super Kings and the Kolkata Knight Riders. In the IPL, he demonstrated his experience and skill, contributing to his team's success with his economical bowling and ability to bowl well in pressure situations. After retiring from all forms of cricket, he transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring cricketers.