Second Innings

Chapter 1

The electric atmosphere of a high-stakes cricket match between two fiercely competitive college teams. The sun casts a golden glow over the well-maintained field, where players, clad in crisp uniforms, are ready for action. One team's star player stands at the crease, his stance confident, eyes locked onto the bowler with unwavering determination.

The stands are packed with spectators, their cheers and shouts blending into a cacophony of excitement and anticipation. Banners wave, and the college band plays spirited tunes, heightening the tension of the moment. Teammates watch intently, their hopes pinned on each other's performance.

Suddenly, the opposing team's star player steps up to the crease. With a powerful swing, he sends the ball soaring high into the sky. The crowd holds its breath as the ball clears the boundary with ease – it's a six! The rival supporters erupt in cheers, while the other team feels the pressure mounting.

The game intensifies with each passing moment, the energy on the field palpable. Every run, every ball becomes crucial, setting the stage for the drama and emotions that will unfold in the story. Amidst the competition, personal battles and hidden tensions simmer, waiting to be revealed.

Up in the podium, Coach Prakash and Kumar Lakshminathan sit side by side, their eyes fixed on the action below. 

The commentator's voice booms over the loudspeakers, capturing the crowd's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, to win this year's cricket match, the team needs to score 18 runs in the last over. It's all come down to this final over!"

On the field, the players huddle together, a mix of determination and anxiety etched on their faces. The captain looks around, weighing his options, as all eyes focus on the decision of who will bowl the last over. Fielders gather, whispering strategies, their breath visible in the cool evening air.

Kumar:   Thambi Ashwin ku last over ah poda sollu  (Kumar leans closer to the boy sitting next to him and said)

Prakash: Kumar! Am I the coach, or are you?? (Asked irritatedly)

Kumar: That doesn't matter now, They have to bowl this over correctly. Avangaluku innum oru wicket than eduka irruku.

Prakash: College ponapo madirye than ade thimiru.

Kumar: Of course (Kumar smirks, a glint of pride in his eyes.)

Prakash: Like father, like son, thimiru pudichavan.

Kumar: Adula enda doubt um venam (Kumar stands up, a confident look on his face and moves towards the glass, his gaze fixed intently on the field, the tension in the air thickening as the final over approaches.)

The commentator's voice fills the stadium again, heightening the suspense. "The key moment is who will get to bowl this crucial last over. We know Ashwin Kumar Lakshminathan, Sanjay Krishnan and Kavin Raja are  there to ball. They've all showcased their skills by now. By the way Eighteen runs needed from six balls – it's not an impossible target. Let's see how this plays out."

Kumar: Come on Ashwin (While sitting on his seat)

The captain runs towards a player , breathless and urgent. "Coach said you're up for the last over, Ashwin. It's all on you."

And there he is. Ashwin's face, determination and focus etched in his expression. The crowd, sensing the pivotal moment, erupts in cheers, chanting Ashwin's name in unison. The stadium vibrates with anticipation.

Ashwin, taking a deep breath to steady his nerves, walks to his mark. He grips the ball tightly, eyes narrowing as he locks onto his target. The energy in the air is electric as Ashwin prepares to deliver the first ball of the last over, the entire game hinging on his performance.

...........................................................................................

Meanwhile, outside a quaint juice bar on the other side of town, a sleek car pulls up. Inside, two elegantly dressed women sit, their conversation hushed but intense.