IPL 2022: Data and High performance managers of IPL teams

It is that time of the year – the business end of the IPL. The probabilities and different NRR scenarios are already being analyzed by fans, cricket pundits and the teams themselves. This means a busy few days for data and high performance managers of all IPL teams. However, their scope of work is far more than this.

Since the IPL began in 2008, role of performance analyst has evolved from simple video and data storage to managing entire ecosystem of the game. They play a key role for franchise right from scouting talent, defining auction strategy and using predictive analytics to assist coaches and players make informed decisions.

“Match Ups” has been one of the buzzwords in this IPL. These match ups are identified by the data and high performance managers, which directly help captains and coaches to define strategy. It plays a huge impact on outcome of the game. Let us look at the data and high performance managers of each IPL team.

1. Lakshmi Narayanan (Chennai Super Kings)

Lakshmi Narayanan fondly known as ‘Lakky’ has been integral part of Chennai Super Kings unit since the inception of IPL in 2008. He has transformed the data and high performance analysis for the franchise. Except for 2020 season, CSK has qualified for playoffs in every other IPL seasons that they played. During 2016 and 2017, Lakky has consulted Gujarat Lions team for data strategy and high performance management. In total, he and his team has qualified for playoffs in 12 out of 14 IPL seasons.

This undoubtedly makes him the best data and high performance manager in the Indian Premier League. His record as data & performance manager is stellar. He was performance analyst of India under 19s team led by Virat Kohli that won the Under 19s world cup in 2008. Since then he has gained myriad of experience in all domestic as well as major T20 leagues around the globe such as BPL, GT20 Canada, TNPL, Tamil Nadu Ranji trophy team.

He captures over 100+ data points per ball, which are used to gain insights. He believes in keeping communication easy and simple to communicate data effectively to the players and coaches. With his vast knowledge and experience, he has surely played a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ success.