SHE WAS NEVER MINE

16.

"So, MS, what do you think? How are you going to handle this new, young Indian team?" A reporter inquired of Mahi bhai.

"Well, it's not solely about managing them. The boys joining the team have already faced some of the toughest situations..." Before Mahi bhai could elaborate, the reporter interrupted once more.

"But this is international cricket," the reporter interjected, though Mahi bhai remained composed, listening attentively before replying.

"The game has evolved, and our players have been competing with international talent for the past 3 to 5 years in the IPL. While international cricket presents its unique challenges, they are eager to embrace them," he concluded with a smile.

"Anyone else?" I queried. It felt surreal. Not long ago, I was one of those reporters attending such press conferences. Now, I'm the media manager for the Indian Cricket Team.

Surprisingly, I wasn't taken aback. I've worked diligently for this moment since my graduation. I've envisioned it for so long.

No, I'm not saying I couldn't believe this was happening, the words you've just read aren't mine. Yes, I was taken aback when I got this job. I couldn't believe that I was the media manager of the team when I woke up this morning. It felt like a dream.

"Don't say you couldn't believe this was happening to you, Anushka. Nothing happens by miracle. You earn things and make them yours. You've worked hard for this, even if I don't know your entire journey. I know you. I know you've dreamt of this day since you were younger. Your younger self worked hard for this. Don't underestimate yourself by saying you couldn't believe this, because this is your reality and you've created it," Virat said to me when I was overwhelmed with nervousness about my first day. And yes, he definitely transformed my nervousness into excitement.

"MS, there are rumors that you forced senior players to retire in order to build a younger team for the upcoming tournament?" A foolish question interrupted my train of thought.

"I think the media really needs to control their dissemination of false articles. I know how such questions arise when our senior players themselves clarify all the rumors when they go viral. I don't have the power to force someone to leave the game," he responded.

"Then why so many retirements within a couple of months?" A reporter countered. Mahi Bhai paused for a moment before replying.

"It's the personal choice of the player when they decide to retire from the game," he tried to maintain his composure, but I could sense that the question was unsettling for him. As it was time to conclude the press conference, I took the stage.

"Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for your presence. We look forward to seeing you at the next press conference," I endeavored to sound gracious, but to be honest, being on this side of the press conference isn't easy at all.

After wrapping up some of my tasks with journalists, I joined Mahi Bhai.

"Everything okay, bhai?" I inquired as we continued to walk. The press conference was held in the hotel itself, so we were heading toward the team room. The players hadn't arrived yet. Ritsy was taking care of her part of the arrangements as the team manager for the players.

"Nothing to worry about, baccha," he replied with ease. "Thank you for the question you posed before the conference; it really helped," he added with a smile.

"It's my job, bhai, no need to thank me," I assured him.

"So, are we ready for their little welcome?" Sakshi bhabi asked as we entered the team room. Mahi bhai gently hugged her and kissed her forehead.