The Unknown

Chapter Eight

After successfully clearing the first round of selections, Arjun received word that he had to report to Delhi within two days. He and Ravi wasted no time and made their way to the capital city.Amidst the hopeful contenders, Arjun stood out, particularly as the top choice for the all-rounder category. His remarkable performance left everyone with the strong impression that he was a sure pick for the under-19 squad. However, just as it was Arjun's turn to showcase his abilities, chaos ensued. News broke that the son of a member of the selection committee for the Indian cricket team, Vijay, was also in contention for the all-rounder category. A phone call reached the officials, leading to a perplexing turn of events. Arjun, who was all set for his trial, was abruptly asked to step aside, making way for Vijay to take the spotlight. Confused and disheartened, Arjun watched as Vijay took his place in the trials. Within moments, Ravi was summoned to meet the officials.

Inside the cabin, Ravi was in for a shock when they informed him that Arjun had not been selected for the under-19 camps. Protesting against this injustice, Ravi argued, "Sir, this is unfair. Arjun performed exceptionally, and you witnessed it firsthand. How can you make this decision?" Pradeep Tiwary, one of the officials, responded bluntly, "Mr. Ravi, Vijay is the son of a selector for the Indian cricket team. And what about Arjun? With your 25 years of experience in this field, you must surely understand the politics at play here, right?" Ravi's voice quivered with disappointment, "Politics? You're favoring a well-connected candidate over an exceptional talent. Sir, please reconsider. You're jeopardizing Arjun's career, a golden opportunity to prove himself. I implore you, please reconsider."

But Pradeep remained unyielding, "I'm not ruining his career, Ravi. Or I can speak to your state's Ranji team coach, Jay Vardhan, to secure a spot for Arjun. Would that be acceptable?" Ravi's response was firm, "We're not here for your recommendations, sir. We believe in talent, and Arjun is a master of his craft. He will undoubtedly become a cricketing legend. Mark my words." Leaving the cabin, Ravi informed Arjun of the devastating outcome. Arjun was left in a state of shock, tears in his eyes, unable to comprehend the unfairness of the situation.

Amir, who had eagerly anticipated Arjun's selection, was disheartened but could do nothing to change the decision. Amir tried to console Arjun, "Arjun, come here." Arjun, still reeling from the disappointment, approached Amir, and Amir continued, "I understand that this hurts. I, too, always wanted to prove myself, but life never gave me the chance. Now, it's your turn to demonstrate your potential as a great cricketer. It's also my turn to prove myself as a coach. Life is rife with obstacles, Arjun. We must face them all. Consider this a hurdle and move forward. Everything will be fine."

Though Amir's words were meant to comfort, Arjun remained unconvinced. Amir, sensing Arjun's lingering doubts, told Ravi, "Ravi, please go and talk to him."

Ravi took it upon himself to reach out to Arjun and try to uplift his spirits. Approaching Arjun, Ravi gently inquired, "Arjun, you're feeling low, aren't you? Arjun, still carrying the weight of the recent rejection, responded with a heavy heart, "Yes, sir."Ravi, determined to help Arjun see the bigger picture, began to share an inspiring story, "This is nothing when compared to your coach's story."

Arjun, curious, asked, "Our coach has a story?"

Ravi proceeded to recount the tale of Amir's unfulfilled cricketing dreams, "Yes, Arjun. Your coach was one of the best all-rounders in the Indian cricket team in the late '80s. He was an incredible player who secured his spot in the squad after the 1983 World Cup. Then, there was a series against West Indies. India was the favored team because of Amir. Up until that point, your coach had played just one series against South Africa, boasting a unique record of scoring over 150 runs in each game during that series. But then, during the first practice session against the West Indies, he ruptured his ankle. Doctors recommended three months of bed rest, and he hasn't received a call from the selection board since that day. Politics pervade every aspect of cricket, Arjun. We need to keep proving our worth. So, tell me, whose story is more heart-wrenching?"

Overwhelmed by Amir 's tale, Arjun concluded, "My coach's story is more heart-wrenching."

Ravi continued, imparting valuable lessons, "You see, Arjun, in life, politics is everywhere. We need to continually prove our talents. It's essential to possess our abilities constantly."Arjun, motivated by Ravi's words, asked, "Sir, what is our coach's dream?"Ravi's response revealed the aspirations that Amir held close to his heart, "He always dreamed of lifting the World Cup for his team and his country."

Determined and inspired, Arjun took Amir's dream to heart, vowing, "It's not just our coach's dream anymore; it's my dream as well. I will strive for it."

Leaving Arjun to his practice, Ravi returned to Amir.Amir questioned, "Did you talk to him?"Ravi confirmed, "Yes, I did. Arjun possesses something special, Amir. Do not let him slip through your fingers. Mark my words, Arjun will lift the World Cup for you."