"Crisis Coverage: Damien, University of Television’s Head of Operations, On Site in Pakistan"

1. Damien, you’ve found yourself in a unique and challenging situation in Pakistan right now, working during a high-stakes cricket tournament. Can you describe what your day-to-day routine looks like in this environment, especially given the current political climate and airport closures?

“Well, it’s certainly a unique experience being in Pakistan right now with this high-stakes cricket tournament underway, especially given the current political situation and the airport closures. To be honest, my day-to-day here is far from the electrifying atmosphere one might imagine. We’re essentially in a security bubble at the hotel. A ‘typical’ day revolves around focusing on what we can control — dedicating time to skills development, diving into online courses, and watching training videos. It’s all about using this downtime to sharpen our knowledge and understanding of the game. It’s not the thrilling cricket experience many expect, but we’re doing our best to stay productive and keep our minds engaged while waiting to see how things unfold.”

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2. As an EVS operator and engineer, you are responsible for ensuring smooth and uninterrupted broadcasts. How does your role change in such a tense, unpredictable environment, and how do you prepare mentally to handle those pressures?

“Being an EVS operator and engineer in a high-stakes cricket tournament is demanding enough, but layering on the current tense and unpredictable environment here in Pakistan significantly shifts the dynamic of my role. My primary responsibility remains ensuring a smooth broadcast, but the margin for error feels razor-thin.

Communication becomes even more critical. We’re constantly coordinating with the production team, security personnel, and local authorities to stay ahead of any disruptions. Contingency planning becomes part of our daily workflow — thinking about backups, signal alternatives, and redundant power supplies.

Mentally, it’s about compartmentalizing. During shifts, I focus purely on the technical side. I use mindfulness techniques to stay grounded and avoid being overwhelmed. Trust in training, equipment, and our team is crucial. We rehearse failure scenarios so we can troubleshoot calmly and effectively under pressure. Adaptability is everything.”

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3. EVS systems are often deployed in some of the most demanding situations worldwide. How does working in a conflict zone like this compare to other challenging locations you’ve worked in? What unique challenges are you facing right now?

“Working in a volatile environment like this amplifies every typical challenge. There’s a layer of uncertainty and psychological pressure that goes far beyond technical concerns. The ‘unseen threat’ of instability creates a background tension that’s hard to ignore.

Airport closures are a logistical nightmare — support becomes limited, and options for evacuation are restricted. Erratic information flow and misinformation make planning difficult. Security protocols are intense, and while they’re necessary, they can also be mentally draining. The emotional impact on local staff adds another layer of complexity.

Overall, staying focused is harder under these conditions. It’s a real test of mental strength and adaptability.”

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4. It’s not often that a replay operator is caught in the middle of a geopolitical crisis. How do you and your team stay focused, especially with the constant awareness of potential danger around you?

“It’s definitely unusual. We stay focused by creating structure. During broadcast hours, it’s all about prioritizing tasks, supporting one another, and sticking to routines inside the security bubble. Communication is tight, and we limit exposure to news that could create distraction.

Security briefings provide reassurance, and we acknowledge emotions during off-hours. It’s about discipline, teamwork, and managing our mental well-being to stay fully effective.”

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5. You’re currently in the middle of a major cricket tournament, which is a huge event. How do you balance the immense responsibility of capturing the energy of live sports while dealing with the uncertainty around you?

“It’s a balancing act. When we’re on-air, our world shrinks to the monitors and the task at hand. We rely on protocol, experience, and clear communication. We immerse ourselves in the action of the game and block out the noise.

Outside those hours, we reconnect as a team, stay informed, and support each other. It’s about mental discipline and compartmentalizing in order to deliver excellence despite the uncertainty.”

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6. We often talk about the technical side of EVS operations, but what kind of mental strength is required to function in such extreme conditions?

“Resilience is essential. The pressure can get to you, so I rely on focused breathing, visualization, and mental routines. Trusting in my training and team gives me confidence. Keeping perspective and accepting the things I can’t control helps manage the emotional load.”

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7. EVS teams play an essential role in the broadcast of major events like this tournament. What’s your role during high-stress moments, especially in crisis situations?

“In crisis moments, the EVS operator becomes a stabilizing force. We provide continuous, clear visuals that help maintain a sense of normalcy and clarity for viewers. Whether it’s through flawless replays or keeping the stream steady, our calm and professionalism underpin the entire broadcast.”

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8. Being in a situation like this must push you and your team to new limits. Have there been any recent moments that made you realize the importance of your role?

“Definitely. Just a few days ago, we had a brief feed dropout during a tense off-field moment. There was a lot of speculation in the air. We recovered the transmission immediately, and nothing critical was lost. That moment drove home how vital our work is — we’re not just delivering content; we’re preserving stability for a global audience during uncertain times.”

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9. With airports closed and movement restricted, how has this impacted your work-life balance? How do you cope with the emotional and physical toll?

“Work-life balance is almost non-existent right now. The days blur together inside the hotel. I try to maintain a structured routine — dedicated work hours, breaks for online learning or physical exercise, and regular video calls with family. Mindfulness helps me manage the stress and stay centered.”

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10. Looking at the bigger picture, what does it mean to you to be part of an EVS team during such instability, knowing your work connects people to live sports?

“It means a lot. We’re not just technicians — we’re part of something bigger. In a time of instability, sports can provide connection and relief. Being able to deliver that experience despite everything going on is something I’m proud of. It brings a sense of purpose and responsibility that goes beyond the console.”

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11. As an experienced operator, what advice would you give to young EVS operators who might one day find themselves working in crisis zones or high-pressure environments?

“Stay calm and focused. Master your equipment so it becomes instinctive. Communicate clearly. Be flexible — things will go off script. Build mental resilience by practicing mindfulness and healthy coping strategies. And never forget — your work matters. You’re helping connect people through some of the most powerful moments in live media.”

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12. Finally, given what you’ve experienced in Pakistan, do you feel this has changed how you see your role on the ‘front lines’ of live broadcasting?

“Absolutely. This experience has redefined ‘front line’ for me. While I’m not in a traditional combat zone, we are responsible for maintaining a steady link to the outside world, even in crisis. Our work holds people together — it brings information, distraction, and a sense of normalcy. That’s something I won’t take lightly again.”