Chapter 14: chapter 13 - selection.
Coach Vishal had just witnessed bowler number 77 and was disappointed with the pace demonstrated by the bowlers that day. When he realized it was already number 78's turn, he had lost hope for finding fast pace options and was considering combinations for upcoming matches. He began discussing the next lineup with his assistant coach. However, as bowler 78 started his run-up, Vishal became interested and decided to watch. To his astonishment, he observed the bowler's impressive speed and subconsciously asked his assistant coach, "Hey, who is that child?"
The assistant coach checked his notes and responded, "Sir, his name is Rohan Bade, a right-handed all-rounder from SPG." Vishal tried to recall such a player but couldn't remember, so he inquired further, "Which team did he play for last year?"
The assistant coach replied, "There is no data on him, sir. It seems he's a new player." Vishal instructed the assistant to reassign him from all-rounder to bowler and asked him to call Coach Mahesh for a chat. He also requested a speed gun to test Rohan's pace.
The assistant coach promptly fetched a speed gun and positioned himself behind the net to measure Rohan's speed. When Rohan was about to bowl his second delivery, he saw Coach Vishal gesturing to him and calling him over. Confused, Rohan approached and asked, "Is there any problem, sir?"
"Your name is Rohan, right? You bowled well just now. Now, show me your best speed. I want to see your full pace," Coach Vishal instructed, then rejoined the assistant coach.
Rohan was delighted that the coach was interested in his speed and decided to use his best pace. As he bowled, he focused on generating full pace by using two seam balls. After his delivery, the coach asked for his speed. The speed gun displayed 120 kmph, an impressive speed for a 12-year-old. Coach Vishal asked him to bowl again, and Rohan delivered at 118 kmph.
Rohan bowled a total of six balls, all exceeding 110 kmph. The coach was satisfied and asked him to take a rest. Rohan sensed his selection and wanted to demonstrate his batting skills, but the coach informed him that his practice for the day was over and advised him to seek further instructions from Coach Mahesh.
Rohan felt puzzled because he had initially registered as an all-rounder, yet he hadn't received an opportunity to bat. He approached Coach Mahesh to clarify the situation. After a discussion with the assistant, Coach Mahesh returned with an explanation that Rohan had been reassigned from all-rounder to full-time bowler. Despite his confusion, Rohan decided not to inquire further.
Throughout the day, Rohan interacted with his teammates, purposely not revealing his selection to avoid pressuring them. By evening, the selections were finalized, and the players were instructed to contact the head coach in two days. Those selected were to convene at Azad Maidan the following Saturday for practice.
In the evening, Coach Vishal called Rohan to inform him of his selection and requested his presence at the ground at 8 am on Saturday. Rohan shared the good news with his family, who congratulated him. Throughout the week, he juggled practice and school. He learned that only his captain was selected, empathizing with the others and encouraging them to keep working for future chances.
At 8 am on Saturday, Rohan arrived at Azad Maidan with his captain. Seeing familiar faces like Masood, he exchanged contact information with him. They noted a total of 25 players present and began introductions. At 9 am, Coach Vishal and his coaching team arrived. He introduced himself and his team, emphasizing that they had three months to work hard and prove themselves. He warned against laziness and instructed them to do their best during practice matches every Sunday.
As practice commenced, Rohan joined his warm-up group and later was summoned by Coach Abhishek, the bowling coach. Coach Abhishek confirmed Rohan's identity and informed him that he would be training with him. They headed to a net where Rohan began practicing bowling at an empty pitch. After six balls, Coach Abhishek approached him for a discussion.
"That's enough for fast balls. Your speed is impressive, but remember that you can't solely rely on pace in matches. Can you bowl any other deliveries?" Coach Abhishek inquired.
Rohan honestly detailed his ability to bowl in-swing and out-swing, as well as pace variations with controlled lengths. Coach Abhishek was highly impressed and encouraged him to continue and refine his skills. He asked Rohan to focus on out-swing and in-swing while watching the batsman's movements.
Over the next three weeks, Rohan and Mahesh formed a partnership, and Mahesh gradually adapted to Rohan's pace. During this time, Mahesh offered instructions to Rohan on using out-swing by observing the batsman. The coaching staff noticed Rohan's progress and the collaboration between him and Mahesh.
As the weeks passed, the team's focus shifted to identifying the captain. The captain's role was crucial for the team's success, and after much deliberation, the coaching staff finally made their decision. The captain for the upcoming U12 tournament was...
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