The Unknown

Chapter Nineteen

As India advanced to the semi-finals of the World Cup after a string of impressive victories in the league stage, the team was preparing for the crucial match. During one of their practice sessions, Coach Anil had an important conversation with Rajiv Khanna, the brother of Rakesh Khanna.

"Rajiv, you will be playing in place of Arjun in tomorrow's match. Make sure to practice well."

Rajiv was apprehensive about this decision and expressed his concerns to the coach. "Sir, I believe this might not be the right decision. I'm aware that I haven't been performing up to the mark. Please, reconsider this change, as it could negatively impact our team."

Anil, understanding Rajiv's perspective, explained the dilemma he was facing. "I understand your concerns, Rajiv, but your brother has strongly urged me to make this change."

Rajiv reluctantly agreed, and India played the semi-final match against Australia, which they won. Arjun's remarkable all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match award.With the semi-final victory, India was now poised to face Pakistan in the finals, setting the stage for an epic showdown in the World Cup.

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The day before the World Cup finals, Ravi made a visit to Dharamshala to have an important conversation with Arjun. Arjun greeted his coach and inquired about how everything was going.

"Fine, sir. How's my coach?"

Ravi took a deep breath and knew that he had a difficult task to share some heartbreaking news with Arjun. "I know this will be incredibly hard for you, Arjun, but I believe it's my responsibility to tell you."

"What happened, sir?"

Ravi hesitated for a moment before revealing the painful truth. "I received a phone call last night. Amir, our beloved coach, is no longer with us, Arjun."

Arjun was left in shock after hearing this devastating news, "Sir, please say that again."

"Amir is no longer with us. He left this letter, intending for me to give it to you if India reached the finals."Arjun was overwhelmed with emotions, and he couldn't bring himself to read the letter, so he asked Ravi to read it on his behalf.

Ravi began reading Amir's heartfelt letter:

"Dear Arjun,

Your coach here. I know that my health is deteriorating. Arjun, you are like a son to me, as I've always said. Though I may not be by your side, my spirit will always be with you. Please don't leave our academy, and don't leave Chotu alone. Arjun, I have a final request as a father. Win this World Cup for me. Even though I may not be physically present, I'll be watching you from somewhere above. I want to witness the way people cheer for you, see you lifting the World Cup, and that radiant smile on your face. You are the best thing that ever happened to me. LIFT THE WORLD CUP FOR ME. Love you."

Ravi knew that Arjun was deeply affected by the letter and tried to provide some comfort,"This isn't the time to cry, Arjun. Tomorrow's game is crucial. Wherever he is, I'm sure Amir will be proud and happy."

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C-1: It's an intense moment here in Dharamsala, and this match has certainly lived up to its billing. The World Cup final comes down to the last ball. Pakistan needs 2 runs to lift the World Cup, while India is desperate for a wicket to seal the victory. Arjun Kumar, the legendary cricketer playing his final innings, prepares to deliver the final ball of his career. It's a tense moment, and the crowd is in pin-drop silence.

C-2: Arjun Kumar is having a discussion with his captain, Manoj Kundum, about the field placements. The entire team is inside the thirty-yard circle, and every player knows the significance of this moment. Can Arjun Kumar, in his farewell match, finish his career in grand style?

(Arjun Kumar takes a deep breath and begins his run-up.)

C-1: The stadium is holding its collective breath as Arjun charges in.

(The batsman anticipates the delivery, and the ball leaves Arjun's hand.)

C-2: It's a yorker, a perfect yorker delivered by Arjun Kumar! The batsman tries to dig it out, and the ball races towards the stumps.

C-1: But the batsman manages to get his bat down in time, and the ball goes straight to the fielder at short mid-wicket. They scramble for a quick single.

C-2: The fielder releases the ball, but it's too late. The batsmen complete the run, and Pakistan wins the World Cup in dramatic fashion!

C-1: What a match, what a finish! Pakistan has won the World Cup with that thrilling single off the last ball. The entire stadium is buzzing with excitement and relief.

C-1: Tension is at its peak in Dharamsala. The World Cup final has come down to this dramatic moment. Pakistan requires 2 runs from the last ball to lift the trophy, while India is desperate for a wicket to clinch the championship.

(Captain Manoj Kundum looks nervously at the field placement while Arjun Kumar prepares for the delivery.)

C-2: The field has been adjusted with all 11 players positioned inside the thirty-yard circle, ready to stop any quick singles. The crowd watches in silence, aware of the historic significance of this moment.

C-1: Arjun Kumar, the legendary cricketer, is having a conversation with his captain, Manoj Kundum. The pressure is immense, but the hopes of millions are riding on this one ball.

(Arjun Kumar takes a deep breath and starts his run-up.)

C-2: The stadium is electric with anticipation as Arjun charges towards the crease.