The Unknown

Chapter Thirteen

Jay Vardhan took a moment to prepare himself for the upcoming team board meeting, fully aware that this had been the worst performance to date. The pressure was on to find a solution to the issues they had faced. Meanwhile, Rashid was confident about Arjun's performance in the match and was hopeful that Arjun would step up to the occasion.

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C-1: Let's see what the boy from Vizag can do. This would be a perfect beginning for him if he handles the pressure. He seems to be confident.

C-2 : There's a change in the field. Here goes the bowler.

(Arjun heaves the ball for a huge six over deep mid wicket)

C-1: What a start to a debutant!!! This amazes everyone in the field. Look at that intensity in his eyes. Oh my boy, perfect beginning for a perfect player.

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In the dugout, Prakash spoke up, "Jay sir, I think you should call for the meeting. Arjun looks very confident." Jay nodded, acknowledging Prakash's observation. "Yes, but he should bat for a very long time to help us achieve a competitive total."

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(By the end of the day the team score was 208/9. Arjun's score is 97*)

C-1 What an innings from that guy. He really took his team to a comfortable zone. I think they can defend this score. Take a bow my boy the team deserves you.

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In the dugout, Jay commended Arjun's performance, saying, "Well played, Arjun. That was exceptionally good from a debutant."Arjun expressed his gratitude, replying, "Thank you, sir." Rashid, offering a word of caution, chimed in, "One innings doesn't define who you are, Arjun. It's all about consistency. One innings can either make or break your career. Make sure you never face the innings that could ruin your career."Jay nodded in agreement, emphasizing, "That's right. This isn't the time for celebration; it's the time to plan for future success. Let's leave the ground and return to the academy."

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The cricket selection committee was abuzz with discussions about the recent match. Arjun's name had surfaced, and many committee members were intrigued.

Srivastav, a member of the committee, shared his thoughts, "I hadn't heard of Arjun's name before, but today his name is known to many people across the country."

Ravi, who had been keeping an eye on Arjun's progress, spoke up, "I had already informed you about his exceptional performance. He is a student of Amir."

Srivastav was intrigued, "Amir? He is a legend in the cricketing world. We all know how remarkable his tactics are. We should keep a close eye on this young player."

Ravi nodded in agreement, "Yes, Sir. If he continues his outstanding form, we can consider selecting him for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour."

Srivastav concluded, "Indeed, without any hesitation."

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C-1 Welcome back everyone. Day 1 has been wonderful to watch and Arjun's show was impeccable. He is just a shot away from a milestone. Here goes the bowler

(Arjun glides that away to a boundary.)
(Arjun reaches his maiden century and lifts his bat in delight.)

C-2 What a way to bring up his hundred. A clean stroke across the fine leg for a boundary. The teammates are giving a standing ovation and he deserves it.

Arjun played a marathon innings, eventually getting out on a monumental 178 runs. His innings had anchored the team's total to a substantial 310 runs. Arjun's brilliance wasn't limited to batting alone. He revealed his prowess as a bowler too, becoming a vital part of the Andhra Pradesh bowling unit. His spell of 5 wickets for just 30 runs in one match was nothing short of remarkable. He was a true all-rounder, making his presence felt with both the bat and the ball.

With Arjun's exceptional performance, the team's confidence soared. Their opponents crumbled under the pressure, and Andhra Pradesh's bowlers went on a rampage. They dismantled the opposing team and secured a lead of over 200 runs. Arjun had impressed everyone with his cricketing skills.

In the very next match, their opponents were forced to follow on after failing to put up a fight in the first innings. Unfortunately for them, the outcome was no different. Arjun, once again, proved his worth by taking six wickets, leaving the opposing team in tatters. Andhra Pradesh won the game with an innings to spare, and Arjun's contributions were the driving force behind their success.

Arjun's consistent performances didn't go unnoticed, and he was rightfully awarded the "Man of the Match." He had truly become the shining star of Andhra Pradesh's cricketing journey.

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The post-match presentation was a crucial platform for Arjun to reflect on his performance and share his thoughts. The interviewer's questions probed into the depths of his emotions and dedication to the game.

Interviewer: How was your first match?

Arjun: It's pretty good. I think I proved myself with my performance, and I wish I could do a lot more in the upcoming matches.

Interviewer: This was your first century. To whom will you dedicate this?

Arjun: My friend Chotu asked me to hit a century in the first game. So I will dedicate this to him. Today is his birthday. I think I am giving a perfect gift for him.

Interviewer: We heard that you and your team captain have some personal issues. Is that true?

Arjun: I don't care about those kinds of issues with respect to the game. In the view of the game, we are players playing for our team's benefit.

After the post-match presentation, Arjun headed back to Vizag, where he had a week's break before his next match.