The Unknown

Chapter Seven

Venkat Prasad promptly headed to the police department to file a case against Rashid, given the irrefutable evidence of his doping. Word of Rashid's wrongdoing spread swiftly, reaching the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Appalled by the situation, WADA wasted no time and ordered the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to suspend Andhra Pradesh's team coach for his negligence and disregard for a player's well-being. On social media, BCCI faced a barrage of criticism and trolling from the cricket community and fans alike.

Meanwhile, Rashid's fate was sealed as he was sentenced to three years in jail for illegal drug consumption, which posed harm to his body. During the investigation, the police department unearthed a stash of drugs in Rashid's room at Amir's cricket academy.

In stark contrast, Arjun remained steadfast in his dedication to cricket, eagerly anticipating the under-19 selections. However, the fallout from Rashid's case resulted in the postponement of the under-19 selections. The authorities now instructed all players participating in the selections to undergo doping tests. Subsequently, Jay Vardhan was appointed as the new coach of the Andhra Pradesh state Ranji team, stepping into the role left vacant by Venkat Prasad.

In the academy, Arjun immersed himself in practice, striving to improve his skills with each passing day. Imran, a source of valuable guidance, engaged in a conversation with him.Imran advised, "Arjun, your batting stance is promising, but you should adjust how you grip the bat."Arjun, eager to learn, asked, "What do you mean, brother?"Imran elaborated, "Hold the bat lower on the handle to allow a full swing of your arms, enabling you to strike the ball more powerfully."Arjun nodded in understanding, "I see, brother."Imran continued, "However, remember this: when you aim to hit the ball hard, move your front foot away from the direction of your swing. Failing to do so might result in an accidental hit to your ankle."Arjun expressed his gratitude, "Thank you for the tip, brother.

"Imran switched gears to bowling, providing more guidance, "Now, concerning your bowling action, always ensure it's clear. As you release the ball, your wrist should be perpendicular to the ground. If you twist your wrist to the left, the ball will swing outward; if you twist it to the right, the ball will swing inward. These instructions apply to right-arm bowlers, but it's the opposite for left-arm bowlers."Arjun appreciated the insight, "Thanks for these valuable tips, brother. Do you happen to know when the under-19 selections will take place?"Imran admitted, "I don't have a precise date, Arjun. They'll summon you for the doping test, and that may provide a hint about when the selections will occur.

Speaking of which, it's essential to prioritize your health. Pay particular attention to your lung health."Arjun, intrigued by this new aspect, inquired, "Why the emphasis on lungs, brother?"Imran explained, "Well, sometimes WADA doesn't accept certain medications, even when they're prescribed by a doctor. Take Yusuf Pathan, for instance. He had a medical issue and followed a doctor's prescription. However, WADA didn't recognize the drugs, leading to a year-long suspension. Later, Yusuf Pathan provided his medical prescription to BCCI, reducing his suspension to five months. So, my advice is to prioritize your health, Arjun."Arjun, concerned, pledged, "I'll definitely take my health seriously, brother. That's a lesson learned. By the way, do you know where Chotu is?"Imran thought for a moment, "I believe he's preparing tea."

Chotu arrived with tea for Arjun and Imran. He seemed particularly delighted. He exclaimed, "Finally, I'm content. I believe in God now."Imran inquired, "What's got you so excited?"Chotu clarified, "I'm talking about Rashid."Imran pressed further, "What do you mean?"Chotu revealed his true intentions, "But there's one thing that saddens me."Arjun, curious, asked, "What's that?"Chotu disclosed, "I promised Arjun that I would manage to hit one of the stumps into his ass and see the expression on his face. I missed the chance!"Arjun reassured him, "Don't worry. Rashid will be back within three years, and with his father's influence, he might return sooner."Chotu, apparently distressed, contemplated the grim prospect, "If he ever returns, I'll simply end my own life. Our sir will need to appoint someone else to make tea."Imran chimed in, "I'll bet you, Chotu. Nobody can rival your tea-making skills. You've mastered the art."Chotu was grateful for the recognition, "Thank you, brother. At least I've earned some acknowledgment."

Amir entered the academy, and the focus shifted back to cricket. Amir informed Arjun, "Your doping test is scheduled for the 28th of this month. Exactly a month from now, your under-19 selections will commence. Fortunately, we have nearly a month for practice. Arjun, let's not waste any time." Arjun, however, had a request, "Sir, may I share something with you?"Amir encouraged him, "Of course, Arjun." Arjun hesitated, then confessed, "Sir, I wish to learn the leg-spin action. Spin bowlers have been gaining more prominence lately, and leg spin is a particularly tricky art to master. I believe it would add to my versatility."

Amir's response was stern and definitive, "Arjun, forget about that. Seam bowlers are equally valued these days. Trust in my guidance, and don't make hasty decisions. You might not understand the significance of my choices now, but in time, you will." With the practice ground as their battleground, the journey continued, as Arjun invested himself wholeheartedly in honing his skills. The day has come. Arjun went along with Ravi to Hyderabad for the first round of under 19 selections.