CHAPTER 47.1 – WORLD CUP...HUNGAMA..AND...YOU! – PART 1

3 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Helloooo everyoneeeee..

So Yup – Here I am today with the First Part of – World Cup..Hungama and You and its about 12.5K words !!

Will be eager to know what you all think as always.

Also, yes this is the First Draft. Please definitely ignore editing/common repition of words errors etc – since I have not proofread.

And I shall now let you Dive In – without further Delay.

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CHAPTER 47.1 – WORLD CUP...HUNGAMA..AND...YOU! – PART 1

4TH NOVEMBER

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

6:45 PM

AT THE SYDNEY CRICKET GROUND

ARNAV'S POV

FINALLY.

FREAKING AFTER ALL THIS ACHING WHILE – I AM ON MY WAY INTO THE STADIUM AND STANDS – TO WATCH MY SPARKLE PLAY HER FIRST EVER ICC WORLD CUP FINAL – LIVE.

And the Emotions I am feeling at the moment – are beyond just Surreal – Indeed – pretty much reaching pinnacle of my very own cricketing excitement too!

I look into the Whtsapp Chat window of my phone – lovingly. I was just on text five minutes ago with my Sparkle who is a bundle of a happy Yo*Yo- Cocktail in her stomach at the moment experiencing the professional thrill along with the rest of her team.

I smile to myself as her happy – heart-warming face revolves from our final video call before she finally left her room to board the team bus alongside everyone to head to the stadium a while ago -revolves in front of my eyes again.

Godaamit Sparkle – I am so freaking Happy for You at the Moment !!

Also yes – guys - If I were to put this across in My Sparkle's words – I'd say – that both my Dear Mind and Dear Heart are kind off Stumped into an exciting state speechless within due to the tsunami of the things and the rush I am feeling at the moment.

I am right on that thought when I feel our bus come to a Halt in front of the SCG. I obviously had to travel to the stadium on our team bus along with the rest of my team and the BCCI officials given the situation at hand – that we were like the official cricketing contingent on behalf of the BCCI too – coming out in support of our Women in Blue.

Oh Yes.

Our families and close near and dear ones are already seated in their respective stands – the tickets and seats that we all had worked towards arranging for all. However not all of our relatives chose to seat themselves in the reserved boxes for players family– and are instead scattered around in various stands in smaller groups in the stands within the Stadium closer to the ground for they all wanted to witness the moment from closer up. But yes – Mom, Dad, Sagar Dad,Nisha Mom, Dadi, Rahul , Anjali, Akash, Payal, Rohan's parents, Samaira, Noor, Sachi Maam, Hridhaan, Shivi, their parents,Jess's parents and Vikram + Kudrat - are going to be sitting in one of the family boxes together – which is closer to the players pavilion stand wherein - I am slated to be seated alongside the rest of my team +BCCI officials to watch the match live from on one circular end off the stadium. ( I have full plans to go to and fro between two boxes to watch my Sparkle play live for you know when I am going to be surrounded by my teammates – I will have to watch my words and excitement a little bit for this last stretch of hours of our pretend bit and I will be openly be able to share my Happiness with my family and friends when I am in their box – so yeah – I totally have to keep Alternating between the Two) Also yes - On the other family boxes adjacent to ours on the right will be the family and close friends of the rest off our women's players too. And a similar layout like this has been slotted at the opposite circular end – for the Austrailan team + Men's Team seating arrangement + player's families)

I finally plug out my earphone grinning getting up from my seat as Rohan, Ravi, Cap gesture to me that it was time to head out - happily.

I look out the momentarily.

Ok. Then.

Guys.

Our Bus is already surrounded and Jamm packed by the Media both local Australian Media + some of our own reporters from back in India who have flown in on behalf of various channels to cover the event – which means that I am going to have to pause on our one on one for a bit – now.

I shall see you all in a bit when I am finally in My Stands – Alright?

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Outside the SCG

Nikhil says grinning into his mini microphone loving the buzz and the craziness outside the Sydney Cricket Ground at the moment– " ladies and gentlemen...as you can see live ...the buzz up here continues to be Insane like it was ten minutes ago with India Women and Australian Women, and the Australian Men players arriving in their team buses...and now more Indian cricketing fans in the crowds around who are yet to be seated in their seats...just cannot seem to contain their excitement at all for our Men in Blue have just arrived at the SCG.....The Austrailan Cricket Board...has been extremely pro-active in tightening up the security around here at the SCG..which is how you can see that as our T20 Men in Blue players led by Skipper ASR and the BCCI officials contingent have been circled around by tight security as they are making their way in...,"and he pauses giving Radha her cue.

Radha who was standing grinning next to him now says into her mini microphone with Varun taking and recording it on live – " and the atmosphere here after the Men in Blue's arrival continues to be electric need...and it is heartwarming to see our men's team come out dressed in their official cricketing get up and jersey's in support off our Women's unit here...who have made India very proud by making their way to the ICC T20 Women's World Cup final...tonight..it truly is going to be Thrilling Finale..given the way both Australia and India Women have performed this tournament..please note to remain on the edge of your seats...and we shall continue to bring to you the Live action here..from the SCG as the match begins...,"and she pauses on her live coverage.

And once she does – Varun gives a thumbs up to both Radha and Nikhil stating that – that byte went up perfectly on Live on all their social media handles and he adds looking – " okay..the buzz continues up online...,"and he pauses to add grinning – " okay this is amazing Nikhil Sir...Radha Maam for it is about 3 Pm back at home..but for the first time ever..it feels like a lot of cricketing fans in our nation have finally put everything on hold this afternoon to watch our women's team play their very first T20 final live..indeed..."

Nikhil and Radha nod happily and she adds frowining next looking at he huddle of Aussie Media around the Men in Blue+ the BCCI officials as they were wading their way in and she adds – " if only we could get a closer spot up in front Niks..we could have got the byte off our Officials, ASR or any of our players too..."

Nikhil nods as he adds looking out and they all spot and hear a Aussie Reporter ask Indian Skipper + Head Coach + Rohan(Vice Captain) a collective question – " How excited are you as India's T20 Men's unit to watch your women counterparts play the finals against Australia tonight..."

They hear Coach Sir answer first grinning as ASR gestured him to take the lead – " We ate absolutely thrilled..to be here...in support of our Women's team to watch them play their first ever final's live...as thrilled as we feel when its our Men's team going into play a World Cup final for sure...for their performance uptil now has been comprehensive and remarkably commendable and we are all rooting for them..."

Varun and Nikhil – high five each other as the Indian Crowd around conintues to cheer.

Radha says to them – " guys..please..hush..as it is the noise is so loud and I can't get a closer look at ASR...you guys...keep hush..please..."

Nikhil and Varun compile and they all step up closer in a group as they now hear ASR answer into the mike grinning as Rohan gestured him to take on answering after Coach sir since he was Skipper – " well I agree with every word Coach sir just mentioned here...we are beyond just thrilled to be here ..infact I say this on behalf of my entire unit that we delighted and elated to come out here in support of our women's counterparts...and hopefully we shall see them pick up their very first World Cup Final cup tonight...for we have immense faith in their talent and grit as a Unit..."

Rohan adds next as the reporter thanks ASR and shifts the mike next to Rohan – " it's amazing for us to be able to live and experience this moment with our counterparts...for usually our schedules end up clashing in a way that it isn't ever possible for us to come out in person collectively in support...so yes..this feels incredible today...to be able to stand in unity alongside them..on behalf of a nation where cricket is as much as a craze as it is here in Australia..."

And as a couple more Aussie reporters begin to ask a couple more questions to ASR, head Coach Sir, BCCI officials, and Cap , Ravi, Veer, Yuvaan, SHIV, and rest of the team players as they continue to make their way in and each of them mentions their happiness and thrill for the Women's unit – Radha nudges to Nikhil – " Niks...you better figure out a way for us to get some of the players on like Mike atleast in the middle of the match.."

Nikhil chuckles at his buddy as he winks and asks – " oh you mean..I must figure out a way of getting ASR on mike??"

Radha rolls her eyes at him as she says – ' very funny..anyway..given that his family + close circle is going to be seated in the family box alongside the Players Pavillion...I surely think he will be going to and fro between the two during the match..."

Nikhil nods – " yup...I think so too...,"and as they spot the team's now heading into the stadium reception as the Media Hustle Bustle and Mini Hello's and Greetings with the Fans subsides – Nikhil adds to Radha and Varun – " come on then Guys...lets head in..and get set...to witness a kickass final??"

Radha and Varun nod happily and they all make their way in towards the stand in the stadium that had been reserved for the Media.

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Seven Minutes Later – 6:52 PM

In the Family Box – in the Stands closer to the Players Pavillion

Akash bites back his grin with great difficulty as he leans forward to whisper in his mother's ears from his seat right behind her – " Mom...please...you gotta tone down your excited expressions a little alright?? remember..Junior and Bhai asked us especially as you ..dad...Dadi and me...to watch our excited expressions a tad bit little for a lot of cameras will be focusing on here once the match begins...I mean in everyone's eyes..Junior is like just Anj's sister in law ..no one knows yet..that she's going to be Bhai's wife..super soon.."

Payal leans into her and chips in happily too – " exactly Mom..I know...this is difficult...and you do want to be able to just indulge in the happiness of the moment freely...but please..this last time..thats all...so just like you were able to tone down your excitement to the right spot in the semi's too...you totally have to channelise that same here..too.."

Reva hears what her children had to say and she turns around a little an whispers back to them – " I knowww Akash..Payal...look..but that was the semi's alright? this is the final...how can I not get this pumped up..,"and she sighs and says toning down her excitement at looking at the crowd around and the stadium buzzing – "okayyy...fine...I will be carefulll...,"and she looks at Dadi sitting next to her grinning calmly and she winks at her children – " maybe...I will just take some tips from Maa here.."

Akash and Payal chuckle at that – and they see Anjali walk back into the stands with some water bottles from the Lounge area outside and she begins to hand over the bottles to them all one by one and Anj whispers softly – " okay...Dadi's all up with the act..we need to school just Mom again to keep her excitement in check..."

Akash and Payal grin and add in unison – "We just did that.."

Reva rolls her eyes happily as she says shrugging – " god..you kids...I told you alright...I will not let my expressions give me away..just let Nisha come back from the washroom with Sachi, Noor, Samaira and Mina(Payal and Rohan's Mom)..they will have my back on this..its only you kids who don't believe me on this yet..."

It is right then they spot Nisha walk back into the stands with Sachi, Noor, Samaira and Mina huddling together around them in the group as she adds unable to keep her excitement as a mother down – " okay...glad..I am done with freshening up well in time..now I am totally not getting up from my seat even for a second..."

Noor adds with a wink – " we understand aunty..and guess what..nor will we....,"and she gestures to all handing them the flags she'd got – " come on guys ..we gotta get in the mood already..."

Samaira waves the Flag Up Happily as she adds – " god...I just love this feeling..."

Sachi waves another flag too as she adds – "me too...it brings back so much emotion from witnessing our men in blue from their World Cups...and especially..,"And she pauses and everyone adds in unison – " the 2011 World Cup Final Sachi...where in Cap..hit that iconic winning sixer..."

Sachi nods happily and Reva, Akash and Anjali remember a memory fondly – "bhai's first ODI world cup final too that was...remember how pumped up he was after the win..at being able to be a part of the iconic moment alongside the seniors of the game...all those years ago.."

Dadi finally finishes gulping down the water as she gets up from her spot saying to all – " okay ..I think...I will also use the washroom just in time...,"and she adds with a wink to all – "also everyone...don't go by my calm grinning expression on the outside...I am so excited within that I can't explain.."

Right then Rahul, Sagar, Abhi, Rajeev(Rohan's Dad) get into the family box too and Rahul adds winking – " good idea my koolest Dadi ever..for we all just did the same too..."

Payal grins as she says to all – " I will just go with Dadi..and be back soon.."

Everyone nods at her.

Sagar adds brushing his hands over his face looking at the buzzing crowd and the housefull jamm packed stadium completely overwhemlemed and emotions as a father all set to see his little girl play her first final – finally – after all that she had been through this year – " this is it...everyone..I can't believe this...that this moment in time is finally here...my little girl is going to play her first final today..."

Abhimanyu adds grinning whispering to all – " there..there..how unfair is this...Sagar can totally display all his happy daddy emotions..where as I have been asked to control mine.."

Reva shares a happy mischevious look with her husband as she says leaning forward to high-five him – " damm right...you are Abhi...like how unfair is this..."

Rahul adds with a happy grin hugging both Reva and Abhi to his sides – "only a little while more..."

They all share a warm laugh at that and Reva asks looking around – " on that note..where is this son of mine..who has given us all these toning down our excitement instructions in the first place...I mean they all arrived..right...and I did spot him getting into the players box three four minutes ago..alongside the team..just wait till he comes here..lets see if he can actually keep up with what he has asked us to follow...,"she finishes with a playful wink.

And it is right then she feels Arnav walking up and suddenly hugging her from behind as he says to all in a hushed whisper – " and Mom's are always right arent they...,"and he adds grinning trying to keep his excitement in check – " I do think...I am going to have a hard time keeping my excitement in check for sure too...."

They all share a happy laugh and that and Rohan, Cap, Ravi join in from behind him as they add in unison – "think? We don't think at all...we know for sure that he is going to have a hard time on that.."

They all share a warm laugh at that and everyone starts to meet and greet each other falling into natural happy chatter simultaneously and about five minutes later - Hridhaan, Shivi, Kudrat, His parents, Vikram, and Jess's parents join them all back in the box too from the lounge area outside the VIP family box as they were chatting up over some tea and coffee's as well – join in everyone too and the happy natural chatter continues amidst all.

About five minutes later of just being with everyone as Arnav hears Shivi's excited reminder that it was now just minutes to the teams coming out for the National Anthem followed by the toss – he finally excuses himself to the side a little and takes out his phone and texts his Sparkle hoping to reach her just in time – again.

Him : hey you...Sparkle...I can't believe that I am actually in the stands right now all set to experience the moment I have been dying for....I hope this reaches you in time...I think you are about to shut your phone up in the locker any second right?

His phone beeps.

Her : yes meri jaan..was just about to do that and your message came up just in time...we gotta step out for the National Anthem in two!and I am superhappy to just feel that you are finally here...for yes ofcourse all of your's buytes about faith in us and wishing us luck right now was what has pumped us more...we were watching it on the coverage live in the dressing room..here...na..meri jaan..(hearts)

Arnav quickly types at the speed of light.

Him : you okay right? Sparkle?? the angsty nerves all settled??

(They had obviously got into a little chat as Khushi had reached the dressing room of the SCG with the team a while ago – and Arnav had been checking up on her.INfact that was what his chat with her on his way on the bus here – was all about)

His phone beeps.

Her : yes...love..I am more than just okay...you made sure of that didn't you? and so did everyone else in the team ya..for they all knew it was natural for me too feel a little nervy...Happy Di, Sheena Di, Jess, Vedika, Harleen, Tanu, Mira Di, Jharna di, and rest everyone ..even Coach Maam and support team...were like super supportive ya...and guess what? I am now able to overcome it all within my head like I told you I would...(Hearts) chalo chalo..now I gotta go thike? Happy di calling us out...and are you in the players pavilion or family box abhi?

Him : at the moment in the family box Sparkle..i will be going to and fro like I told you...I can't even begin to tell you how excited everyone is...okay ..you carry on love...all the very freaking best to you once again Sparkle...and this time around finally I am eligible to text this – I got my eyes on you nonetheless in real time..(Winks)

He grins to himself and taps send.

Her : (A Line off Heartssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss) I know ya love..and everyone's excitement has surely rubbed on me too ever since the collective video call with our families before leaving..with the team for here...okay now..love...I gotta go...I will also leave brief message for everyone in the family group...now..(hearts)

Him : okay then Sparkle...You get Game Ready Meri Jaan..and we shall get ready to watch you Play...

And he taps send to that. And a second later – he smiles to himself as he sees a line of smiling, grinning, excited, namaste, hugs , Hearts,

line of emoticons from Khushi in the family group+ close friends circle group – thanking all for their love and support once again – and he makes his way to join everyone in the Stands – to witness his Sparkle coming out on the ground Live for the National Anthem before the match for the very first time – feeling a Cocktail of exhilarating emotions consume his being.

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Simultaneously in the Media Stand

Radha nudges Nikhil in his arm as she states in awe looking at the shades of Blue and the sea of Indian Fans in the stadium. It could be aptly said that even though the match was in Sydney, Autralia the crowd was divided 50-50 on both sides – " oh my god..Niks...Just look at the freaking ambience...right now..I mean isn't it incredible to finally see so many of our Indian Supporters of women cricket here in Australia...coming out to support India.."

Nikhil nods and he looks up from his phone – " Yup Radha..and Natraj is elated with the response up online and on TV to this finale too..."

Varun looks up from his phone – " and I guess Hotstar is stoked that they got the rights to stream this online live...I mean...there are over 10Lac people tuned in right now...live...back at home..watching the pre match discussions by experts already...this just continues to get amazing-er..."

Radha and Nikhil chuckle as they ask in unison – " amazinger? Varun? Are you sure that is that even an official word?"

Varun winks – " maybe it isn't..lets just say its my invention from here on Nikhil Sir ..Radha Maam..,"and they all pause to share a happy warm laugh and for a second as they see the blown up scenes of Family boxes and from both Indian sides + Australian sides on opposite circular sides + the players pavilion Radha adds grinning taking in ASR's frame for a bit alongside his family and friends grinning and talking – " yup...I was right..wasnt i? he is surely going to go to and fro between the two boxes...,"and she pauses to add – " just look at the excitement up on the family members of our women's players from both those adjacent boxes – they are thrilled.."

Nikhil says happily – " they surely will be thrilled Radha..."

And for the moment as camera rolls up to the family boxes again Radha spots a face deep in conversation with ASR, Cap, Rohan, Ravi, Hridhaan Singh Rajput and Vikram, Shivi – she asks Nikhil – " niks..wait..who is that? that pretty woman next to Hridhaan, ASR, Cap,Vikram,Rohan and Shivi right now??we haven't seen her ever before...,"And she pauses and adds excited in a rushed whisper – " wait..wait..wait...could she be the one ASR has secretly been dating all this while??"

(She is unknowingly referring to Kudrat's presence in there)

Nikhil rolls his eyes at her as he adds in a rushed whisper – " oh Radha please...let's not talk about your theories off ASR's mysterious lady love right now...the teams are about to come out for the National anthem any second now..."

Radha groans at him in a whisper her head going in a overdrive nonetheless – " ya..ya...Niks..I know...all you want is to get a look on the Little Hit girl asap.."

Nikhil winks at her happily in acknowledgement.

And it is right then that they see the rest of the group of reporters in the box get set with their cameras too Radha says to them – " Ok..lets get this rolling..."

Nikhil – " yup...the teams are finally stepping out for the National Anthem...,"and he keeps his eye out on the scene in front – loving the way the Crowds had begun to Cheer.

Radha says into her mini microphone as Varun gets on with the Live – " and here we are...Live from the stands at the SCG...as you can see...India Women and Australia Women are walking out now of their respective dressing rooms from across to line up in center in the middle of the ground to get set for the National Anthem..India Women are being led by the Skipper Harpreet and Australia Women are being led by their Skipper – a moment of immense Pride for our unit indeed....stay tuned in everyone..for after the National Anthem...the Skipper's will get in for the Toss ..and we will know..who is going to bat first on the 22 yards of the SCG in this crackling...finale.."

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At The Ground

Khushi's POV

Guys.

To be Honest – This moment in time is always like this super emotional moment of Pride for us all as national players.

Which Moment?

Walking out for the National Anthem before the match begins – ofcourse!!

But at this particular moment in time as I am walking in my spot in line with my unit being led by Happy Di in this World Cup FInal – all I can say is that I am feeling Immense Pride + Happy emotions take over my being in a way that dear eyes are getting welled up on their own accord as we walk the line.

And I am surely everyone in our team is feeling the same right now.For this is huge for Us – in so many – Monumental ways as players – for in the future no matter what happens in our professional lives - the fact that we played the Final of a World Cup together as a squad will surely be like this bonding factor for us as a Unit.

I pause on those thoughts as the National Anthem for Australia first begins and we all stand tall in respect. And minutes later as I finally hear the tune of our national anthem fall in my ears – I feel an erray of emotions take over and consume Dear Heart with regards to my Professional Journey so Far. And as I sing our national anthem in pride along with the rest of our team – I see the roll of happy faces of all of my loved ones and their belief in me – flash in front of my eyes on its own accord.

And as the National Anthem finally finishes – I also remember the loving, empowering words of each and every one of them and focus on continuing to take power from them too ease out the fluttering in my stomach realigning my focus towards just the 22 yards and the game upfront.

And it finally feels like – as if everything around me was narrowing just to this very ground and it's collection off 22 Yards where I was destined to be injured the way I was – then cope up on the aftermath and learn and grow within my journey as a national sportsperson/individual and then finally fight my way up to this very Distance yet again.

And just like that in a vulnerable powerful moment as this – I feel a closure come within in a full circle – and all my angsty nervousness vanishes in a Puff.And in comes in a Cloud off Focus – reminding me of flashes off my very own cricketing journey where in I first began as a little girl all those years ago!

It is also right then that we see Harpreet Di getting set to step ahead for the Toss and Sheena di gestures us all to walk back towards the dug out and we do the same in a determined silence.

We already have our strategy in Place.

If we win the toss – we are going to Bat First for the pitch looks like a good batting surface and gear up towards putting a Huge total on the Board.

Dear Mind chips in focussed and determined – I can't wait – K - to see the Outcome of this Crucial Toss in the Finale!

Copy that – Dear Mind. I can't wait too.

Dear Heart nods in acknowledgement of the same Too.

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Five Minutes Later – In the Player's Pavillion Stand

Arnav says in his perceptive tone as he , Rohan, Cap, and Ravi make their way back into the Players Pavillion stand to join the rest of their team after the toss was over – " knew it...that whichever team will win the toss will choose to bat first...I mean its always a mind tactic to put pressure on the chasing team in the world cup final from the get set...with that we are going to get runs up on the board Intent.."

Ravi nods as he adds – "yupp..and the pitch report suggests that the surface is good too..giving a balance to bat and ball with pace and swing on their of the ends too..."

Cap adds in his perceptive usual self tone – "one could easily see it on Harpreet's face that if she would have won the toss..they would have batted first too..the intent was visible in the body language..."

Rohan adds nodding – " yes Cap...you got that right...for that is exactly what she is saying up on mike right now...,"and he pauses and adds smiling – " but no worries guys...I am sure our girls are going to be up for the chase..."

Arnav nods – " am sure they are going to regroup in the dressing room now to discuss the same...keep it simple perhaps..bowl well in the right area...exploiting the pitch to the advantage..field tight and take regular wickets...and do not let them get away with too many runs on the board...in the first place..."

Ravi, Rohan and Cap nod and three of them join the rest of their team in the stands with everyone in there pretty much discussing the same of what they just had walking in.

Yuvaan and Shiv, Veer add grinning in unison – " looks like we are going to have to wait the first innings to see our girls bat...a chase is thrilling to watch..but we all know as players on the other end that the mind pressure gets on from the very start...right Skipper?? They need to get prepped up with playing some mind games while fielding now...trap the batswomen into thinking to play for turn and swing..even if there isn't...."

Arnav couldn't help but nod grinning as – " rightly so..Harpreet is quite proactive that way boys as Skipper on field..so lets see how this turns out...,"and he smiles to himself as he thinks – sending out a silent wish to His Sparkle – Sparkle..just remember what you once told me? Pressure and worry is like a robber at your door step! Do not let it rob you of your focus...instead...focus on reversing the scenario with an apt Trap!.

And he gets distracted by the moment around him -leaning in to listen to what his Head Coach and some of the BCCI officials were now saying.

..............................................

In the Indian Dressing Room

The head Coach gestures all the players to get in a huddle and she adds taking a deep breathe with her hands on her waist – " Ok girls...its alright..if the result of the toss wasn't in our favour and we are now going to field first in the final of this World CUP...that's alright...lets not waste a second more contemplating over the toss – whats done is done..we gotta keep our focus first head up on the task at hand...the pitch looks to be a balanced one...it should be working for both pacers and swing at either of the ends..and that's our strategy which we are going to go with...swing from one end...pace from the other..let us focus on our strengths...we can do this....a couple of wickets in the power play shall put the pressure right back on them....,"and she pauses and turns towards her group of bowlers – " you know how to set your traps...with the ball girls...I say back yourselves..and just go for it..,"And she pauses and adds looking at her Skipper – " Harpreet will be setting the field tight as per the situations...but I want each of you to keep your reflexes up and going...just focus on yourself and your reading of the game...we know that in the heat of the moment the Aussies do love to get into banter and sledging here and there...,"and she pauses and adds to all – "usually I ask you all to maintain polite stands when such a case happens but today I don't want any of you to give any heed to it at all moreso and ...just avoid it with a smile on your face as if you didn't hear a word of what they had to say given a scenario of sledge happens be it while fielding or batting...why so?? Because nothing irks the opposition more ..when they do not get the reaction they are trying to get out of you as a unit with their mind games...I say...they target with their glares, stares and mindgames...you target them back with a grin and a thumbs up sign and get on with your game...play your mind...and play it with the right energy..their vey own heart of the moment will get to them..if it has too.."

Everyone in the group nods at one another determined.

Harpreet adds with a smile now – " exactly girls...we keep our focus on our game plan and move ahead...today...before we step out on the field...I want each of us to take just three minutes out...and remember in a flash – everything belittling that we have been through as women cricketers in our journeys to this point..every taunt, every sarcasm..every jibe taken on us ..and after you spend just these 180 seconds of remembering the same – shift the next five minutes completely off your focus on every single one of those people, who has believed and shown faith in Us...and after that...just focus on your very own faith and belief within yourself...and play with your heart up your sleeve today..for it is the T20 World Cup finals...girls...we have this one chance to Create History..lets grab it by the head and give it our all...,"And she pauses and adds smiling – "And as your Skipper today...before stepping out on the field...I shall only say one more thing...a thing I was discussing off this afternoon with Captain ASR after the collective photoshoot.."

Khushi and Jess exchange a subtle silent look and Khushi bites back her smile. She already knew what her Skipper was going to Say. It was something Arnav had told her over the video call anyway before they left for the game.

Harpreet continued and he says – "I asked him what is it as a Skipper that he feels on moments like these?? For you know this is my first time as your T20 unit Skipper leading you all into the world cup final..so yes... You know what he said...he said...he picked this on from the man who will always be his Skipper...and we all know he is talking about Cap...so he went on to share this bit with me that on moments like these in the dressing room in the past...Cap would just often say one thing to the unit huddled together....a very famous sayings by one of our iconic torchbearers of the game...Sir Donald Bradman himself...and that is the tradition he carries on too as Skipper...that,"and she pauses for a second and adds the very famous saying determined – " for us as players...cricket isn't just a game...It's a way of Life...You don't just Play this Game...You Live it..."

As everyone nods determined at one another getting the inference in their being – the collective cheering as a unit begins and Harpreet adds two minutes later – " so that is all I say to you my girls...lets Live every freaking second off this finale today..most surely yes like the moment we have all been dreaming and chasing in our lives...but more importantly as the moments that we will be able to live just this Once..for no matter what happens in the future...no one...can take away these moments of our Play away from us...it is our ours to play, fight and Hopefully Claim the World CUP with to our name..for the very first time...."

Everyone continues to cheer and hoot in positive determination yet again and they all get their hands together in a group hand fist before they all shout out loud in a positive determined unison– " for India...with Love....and for us...and for everyone who had/has/and continues to believe in US....."

..................................

A Little While Later

In the Players Pavillion Stand

Arnav's POV

Yup.

Guys.

Mom really was right in teasing me over this a while ago! For I truly am having the hardest time in masking my overexcited expressions at the sight off My Sparkle up on the field – live in front of my eyes for Real and to be honest – a strong part off me is kind off groaning very strongly over the bit where in the camera's are constantly rolling on and off over the family boxes + the players pavilion!

I mean – how uncool is this though – for me – within. As in you all know I have been dying to experience this moment, and now that I finally am seeing My Sparkle live up on the field in front off me – I am just supposed to show the excitement that = into the giveaway of the relationship of her being my sister's – sister in law and not display my overexcited nutcase sort of happiness as her soon to be Husband.

Dammmmmmmmmmm!!

But – if you just keep that bit of it aside guys – I would like to tell you all to make this note right here, right very now for Future Reference – that I am feeling all that I had anticipated I would at finally seeing my Sparkle up on field live* Billions*Infinity *Beyond all of Infinity – Indeed.

I mean I have seen her up on TV. Like Obviously!! But at the moment to be able to take in her frame live – is beyond the definition of Bliss for me.

Please note – that as her soon to be Husband – henceforth – I shall now be coming into the Stands very often as and when I can, because now that I have experienced what it feels like – I am totally going to go after feeling it over and over again!!

I am right on the thought where- in I hear Shiv shoot up from his spot excitedly as he adds – " yes...Harpreet..adjust the field more tight for these two batswomen on strike..we'v already got two wickets..within the 5 overs..one more and the pressure will be high on Aussies...,"and I nod at him at that and we fall into a quick discussion about the same.

Ohk yes..Guys. So I am sitting in the Pavillion box with the rest of my Team seated on either of my sides right now along with the BCCI officials right behind us.(Another reason as to why I have to uber careful with my expressions)

Also yes – guys – Score Update.

Australia Women are 36-2 in 5 overs with My Sparkle taking the first ever catch of the match at Mid Wicket( Yes – you read that right - ) to bring the breakthrough for India Women as Harleen bowled in a shot ball to trap the bastswomen in just the previous over!(Please note – I totally jumped up in celebrations alongside the rest of the stand and managed to conceal my crazy facial expressions with the Help off Ravi, Rohan and Cap circling around me and obviously with my action of holding out my cap to go over my Head totally in envy of the rest of our families and close one's who were kind off jumping up in crazy excitement with all the flags and stuff going on freely in the box adjacent to ours.)

Anyways. So – after that bit off it - just two balls later – on the second last ball off the very same previous over the second opening Aussie batswomen misfired a shot which ended up landing straight into Jess's hand at square leg.

Which backs us back to this Point in Time.

Australia – 35 – 2 in 5 overs with Harleen claiming both the wickets with her killer Spin.( This track is suiting Spin for sure. It's a good thing My Sparkle plays spin well)

Right then Veer leans forward in his seat and he asks – " meanwhile..before the over begins...guys...I just have to say this...how killer were those two catches by Jessica and the Little Hit Girl..."

Yuvaan nods and chips in impressed – " yup..and I mean specially that first catch by the Little Hit Girl was super impressive.. even though it was at a comfortable spot of Mid wicket – she totally had to work up her reflexes in that low side dive in a fraction of a nanosecond..for the ball was just flying by her otherwise...whats your take on both the catches Skip?"

My Insides Groan.

I mean – don't get me Wrong – Guys.

I am Extremely Proud Of My Sparkle's killer low side dived catch + Jesse's too.It's just that why did Yuvaan and Veer have to ask me this right very now?

For now I know that the men seated next to me(my closest friends) on my left are totally going to take my case.

Ravi as usal being his cheeky self is the first one to lean forward from the left as he asks – " yes Skip..come on then..tell us..what do you think of those catches??"

Rohan leans in after him asking me innocently – " they were brilliant...weren't they??"

I narrow my eyes at them in a way so that only they can get my gesture and I fiddle with my Cap over my head as I say keeping a mask on my face – " oh yes..boys...I think both those catches were freaking brilliant...indeed...beyond just brilliant.."

Yuvaan adds smiling – " I mean both Jessica and khushi are excellent with their fielding..but I do have to say that it really doesn't feel that one of them was out of the pitch..for months..for sure..she seems so comfortable on it...as if her injury never happened.."

Veer adds in next nodding – " exactly..my point..and not to forget..this is that very same ground she was injured..right??so its brilliant for her to take it on so comfortably right now..."

God – This last bit of Pretend is like the Toughest ever Indeed.

I gesture to Cap who was subtly enjoying me being in my spot to come to my rescue and he adds – " yes boys...I agree with you..on that..,"and he pauses and adds – " ASR..I was thinking to go catch up with Sachi in the family box for a bit..wana join in??"

I nod at him instantly – getting his Cue.

He is My Saviour!

I say to the rest – " ok boys...see you back in a bit..we will just go say hello on the other end..."

Yuvaan, Shiv and Veer nod grinning – " yes..anyways..we can't wait to head into the Blue Mountains for Akash's wedding tomorrow on Skip..."

Guys obviously – I have invited all of my Team over for the Wedding. But except for Rohan, Cap and Ravi – everyone thinks its still Akash's and Payal's wedding for we actually kept up with the whole act of coming up with a set of different digital invitation cards for the same as cover!!

As Cap and me finally make our way out of the box I grin at him as I say – " thank you as always Cap.."

He chuckles at me with a wink – " I just knew it Rohan and Ravi would love to take your case...right then..."

I nod at him happily and we make our way to the family box and as we walk over to everyone all of a sudden I hear Rahul say in a tensed up tone – " oh no Junior..don't...don't go upto third man..."

Anjali adds instantly – " I think that's what the extended ten second talk with Harpreet was about..she was probably in two minds in having to send Junior there as Skipper knowing what happened last when she was injured at that very spot..."

I hear Nisha Mom add next with a sigh – " but I could see it in her body language that she will tell her Skipper that she will go there kids..."

I hear Sagar Dad add next trying to ease out his worries – "it's okay...she will be okay...she's living her game on the pitch..its her duty to do what her Skipper/team expects..everyone..."

Shivi is the next one to get up from her seat as she says – " no..no..Khushi...go to long on instead ya...just don't go to third man...,"and she pauses as Hridhaan and Ranjana aunty and Kudrat reassure her that this moment in time was different than the previous one months ago.

I spot Mom, Dad, and Dadi exchange subtle worried glances too with Akash and Payal.

Cap and me exchange a subtle look as everyone else around us Samaira, Noor, Sachi Maam, Rohan's parents, also get into a hush as Tanu bowls in the first ball off the over which the batswomen takes for a single.

I take a deep breathe to ease down my worry at seeing the sight off My Sparkle at third man completely in focus within the game and I add in a whisper taking a seat next to Dad – " Harpreet knows as Skipper that it is important for her to get another wicket here..for another quick wicket down will result in more pressure on the Aussies..and that player specially their Skipper on crease..is a massive hitter...we need her wicket...which is why she is trying to have Tanu set up a shot ball trap...and securing her bestest fielders at Long on, third man...see...Khushi's gone up to the third man..and Jess to Long On..and ...as a Skipper I understand where she is coming from..."

Dad looks at me sincerely and smile's a little as he leans in sideways to whisper – " I know ..just like I also know you are worried within...son...it doesn't miss my eye.."

I nod at him and as the next four balls also get taken in comfortable singles – and the Aussie Skipper is back on strike - I just reach out to hold a flag in my hand to mask my jittery expressions from showing up on camera (incase there were any rolling by).

It is right then we all see the batswoman fire a sixer shot on the shot ball trap Tanu was setting up for in the last five deliveries in this last over of the powerplay and it goes straight flying towards Third Man where in My Sparkle is at quite a height – and I see Akash, Rahul , Payal, ANJ exclaim in bated breathe worried as they all get up in their seats – " Junior..don't leap up high and attempt a side dive...please...no..no.."

Shivi, Hridhaan, Kudrat, Vikram exclaim worriedly as we all continue to see the ball flying – " Khushi....no..no..."

And I feel Like My Hearts leaped to my Throat as I see Nisha Mom clutch on Mom's hand..Sagar Dad clutch on Dad's arm and Dadi folds her hands in anticipation and I finally leap up in my seat as I turn to Cap to my side as the flashback of the past crosses my eye as I say – " I can't see it...I can't..I know she is going to leap up and to the side..like she did the last time...I just know it....dammit......,"And I put my hand on my my forhead under my Cap's flap to act as a cover up in the moment pretending to be in a casual talk with Cap – knowing fully aware that they would be rolling the cameras right very here at Khushi's parents and families face at this point in time for the theatre affect within the ground and audience.

And it is right then I hear Cap says – " your's right Arnav..she's leaping now...."

And even though I thought I couldn't see the sight – I find my head act on reflex to see the sight and just as I see My Sparkle leap as high she had done prior and then sideways like before too – to take a similar thrilling catch out clean – I say on reflex along with all in unison – " watch it....,"and just as we all take in the sight of her breaking her very own fall this time around with the ball caught in her hand clean - by curling up her left leg and right hand forward in a protective cover as she does fall in little thud to the ground we all

take in a sigh of relief and Rahul, Akash, Anj say the words caught up in my throat in unison next – " Junior...get up..please..we need to see you get up..."

Our parents add in the same collectively! And just as the very next second - she gets up on her feet instantly and starts to run in grinning celebrating her clean catch – we all finally errupt in celebrations!! And everyone starts to hug one another as the Umpire signals OUT and even though they replay it is shown that My Sparkle has managed a killer Flying Catch out completely clean yet again and this time around she broke her fall with her body language to mitigate impact of the hit in time too!!

And I hug Cap happily as I say – " godammit...for a second...I forgot to breathe Cap...I simply just forgot to breathe..."

Cap hugs me back tight as he says – " she knew how to handle this kind of a high leap and fall this time around Arnav..already being bitten by it once..."

Hridhaan, Vikram, Shivi, Jess along with Jess and Hridhaan's parents continue celebration with all too.

Sachi Maam comes from the other side to hug Cap and Akash hugs Payal – Rahul hugs Anj – our parents hug one another in glee and I lean forward to whisper in my Dadi's ear knowing that the lean forward posture will hide by expressions from the camera rolling – " dadi..I know you always side with Khushi ..but trust me on this okay...I am going to reprimand her for having my breathe get lost for a moment..this way....after..."

Dadi kisses on my hand lovingly – " Okayyy beta do that on behalf of all of us for sure...but cmon tell me...as worried as you were...you are immensely proud of her..aren't you?"

I nod at that smiling a little on reflex.

How could I not be proud Everyone?

Australia are 40 – 3 at the end of 6 overs with My Sparkle pulling out two unbelievable catch outs!!

Godammit – Freaking – You – Sparkle.

I just have a hunch that you are on your road to making History tonight along with your team

And as nerve wrecking as this moment got - I am so glad that I am here to watch you do so alongside your Team!!

..........................................

After the End of the First Innings

Live from the Ground – in front off the Media Stand

A lot of reporters are seen giving their live reports near the Dug outs for the center stage on the ground was taken by the officials presenters and interviewers of the ICC – talking about the innings gone By.

Nikhil gets his mike ready and he grins and says into his Mike – " there you are ladies and gentlemen...half way through to the final...and at this stage..it can be aptly said..that grab your popcorns..for the chase up ahead..for this final could go either way still...."

Radha says into her collar mike – " exactly..for even though India Women got off to a dreamy start with clinching 3 wickets in the Powerplay for just 40 – moments which saw some killer catching with one moment being that off a haunting déjà vu for our Little Hit Girl...Australia managed to come back in the game strongly for s steady partnership in between Batswoman no 4 and 5 after lead to Australia scoring in 184 – 4 in their 20 overs....so now...the Chase is set...India Woman need...185 runs in 120 balls to make History and Lift their first very world Cup? Can they do it? Will they do it?? we surely have the batting line up for it....let's see how this turns out.."

And once she gets off her Mike and Nikhil switches off his too – he says too Radha grinning – " god Radha...truly...I still have goosebumps from that moment of Khushi's catch out at third man again..I wish we could get a little byte from her on this right now...such a pity that their head coach requested that we give all the players this mid break time to just recollect and regroup and get set for the chase upfront..."

Radha adds rolling her eye – " oh come on Niks..its the world cup final...no Indian player will be giving their bytes right now..for they still have to chase..,"And she pauses to add – " see a lot of aussie players are now doing so with the official ICC interviewers and presenters team...given that they have managed to put up quite a high score on the board making a comeback into the final after that low start...."

Nikhil sighs and nods – " yup...185 in a World Cup chase is quite high...but see the track was totally a batters pitch given that there was a loss of just 4 wickets in the first innings..means that our team is totally going to chase this.."

Varun nods at them as he says excited – " yes...you are right Nikhil Sir..for the Buzz up online/on hotstar/on all of social media right now is insane...people online are still going beserk nonetheless over that brilliant catch from Khushi at third man...I mean there are a number of comments saying – India's Little Hit Girl manages the Same Supergirl Flying Catch Out at the SCG – Minus the Injury this time and...she's surely conquered her Inner Mind Fears with pulling off the same move successfully etc etc..."

Nikhil nods happily and he adds with a happy wink to Radha – " and rightly so..she deserves all the praise for that...ok...guess what Radha...so what if we cant get any of our women players on right now..lets try to get ASR online for you...,"and he pauses and says to Varun – " Varun...you know what to do..,"he says gesturing towards one of the support team members of the Men in Blue who had come in the contingent in support along with the Men in Blue – chatting up with the support team staff of the Woman in Blue near the dug out and he adds – " he's always helped us get these bytes on and off with players..just tell him you are from Hindu times back home and ask him to help you hand this ear piece to ASR and then Rohan after please...tell him we need some bytes of the Indian Captain and Vice Captain in support up ahead of the chase..."

Varun nods excited and gets ready to get going for his Task leaving behind a grinning Radha behind and she says to Nikhil – " thank you so much Niks..."

Nikhil chuckles and adds grinning – " you are most welcome...partner..."

..................................................

In The Dressing Room – Mid Break

Khushi's POV

Splash One.

Splash Two.

Splash Three.

Splash - Four.Five.Six.Seven.Eight.Nine.Ten

Yup.

I totally need the Flush off this Cold Water Up Dear Cheeks right now Guys!

For as I continue to look at my reflection in the mirror of our washroom where in we all are taking turns to just freshen up after the first innings and getting set for our Chase right now – all I can do – is just continue to wash my face over and over – with my Insides completely stumped – still with most of my body still experiencing goosebumps as I remember my successful catch out at the Third Man in this match this time around at the very same spot I was Injured! And to be honest to you all – at that very moment in time – all I was thinking to myseld standing in at the third man that if the ball comes up my way and I have to leap up yet again – how is it that I was going to safely break my fall's impact? And just like that in the moment – all my physiotherapy sessions and learnings came back in a roll in front off my mind – guiding my instinct on reflex!

Splash of Dear H20 on the face Continues.

Boy - I was Stoked* Beyond all of Infinity when I Pulled off the catch – getting up on my feet – realising that I was able to completely all okay this time around! And I totally did manage to steal the happy glances at my families faces in the family box too as it was being blown up on screen for a moment after and although I couldn't catch Arnav's expressions completely for he was shown leaning in to talk to Dadi...I knew it in my heart that he was just doing so to hide his exciting expressions from showing up on Camera. I am sure everyone must have been super tensed up seeing that ball fly my way to third Man – though? Arnav is surely going to give me a liner on this for sure – – after!!

I am right on that thought when I see Sheena Di step out the washroom cabinet from behind me grinning and she adds with a wink – " partner....haven't you splashed your face enough already? You were at it when I was entering in to freshen up too..."

Jess comes out off the next cabinet and Vedika does from the other – "exactly our point..."

I just splash my face one more time as I finally close the tap turning to them all, taking a deep breathe holding up my hands for a bit and folding it across my chest – " guys..to be honest..now that I am off the pitch...my body was just back to getting goosebumps...of..,"and I pause knowing that they will get the inference.

Sheena di walks up to hug me by the shoulders as she says – " I know..we all had our breathes hitched for a second..too partner..but we are so proud of you..yet again..for snatching your very own closure to your wound of the past out off thin air...you flew right in..to catch it just in time...indeed..."

Vedika nods as she walks up to my other side – " yup..for if we hadn't got their Skipper Out then..this score of 185 in a chase Khushi..would surely have been higher..surely above 200 for sure..for they just got back in the game after with that solid partnership of no 4 and 5 until Tanu got that one more wicket in the last over..."

Jess was just looking at me happily from across and she walks up to just pull me in a hug too as she adds – " I am so proud of you ya Khush....and Vedika is right...if it wasn't for your catch...our chase would have been set above 200 for sure ya....."

I hug her back momentarily – the target of 185 runs now flowing in front of my eyes and before I can say anything to that – Sheena Di says – " come on partner..as openers now...the responsibility is on our shoulders...."

I nod at Sheena di and I say – " yes di...ill just freshen up quickly and join you all out in the dressing room...for I am sure Happy di and coaches will want to have a chat with us before we head out.."

They all nod in unison and Jess hugs me one more time and I quickly walk in to freshen up at the speed of light and once I was done – I made my way quickly back into the locker area to pad up and get ready to Bat – loving the feel of everyone still talking and chatting with a positive intent amidst one another believing that we could chase this even though the target was surely a High One!

Once I was done dawning my pads and most of my kit – I walk over to pick up my Bat – My favouritest one – on which My Skipper Blue had written his code and I touch over it lovingly closing my eyes for a second recalling Harpreet Di's words from prior and keep my focus on imagining his Happy exhilarated face + the rest of my Family+ Friends + near and dear ones + my teams support + My Medical physio's from the NCA, their faith and belief in me over my comeback until this point!

And Dear Heart and Mind finally get out of their stumped hibernation as they finally say. Focus on batting through the innings – K. You can do this. You got to do this for Your Team – tonight!For the sake of every professional and young budding women cricketer in India.The World Cup has been a Dream for so many years for all us women cricketers out there – Contribute in Chasing it down by running steadily in between the wickets – convert singles into doubles..do not take too many risks in the powerplay.Maybe alternate in attack with Sheena Di like you have been all this while! You cannot lose your wicket tonight – K. You just Cannot! Just Focus on your 22 Yards for the next 90 minutes of the game as it begins – nothing else matters – Then! Live Your Time on the pitch as those moments in time that will never come again in this form and way – Indeed.

I take a deep breathe to Fuel myself back in with Determination.

Thank You Dear Insides for that.

It is right then I hear Coach Maam, Harpreet Di, Mira Di – call out to us and we all circle up and around again with Sheena Di and Me all padded up and set and Harpreet Di gestures Mira Di to take the lead in addressing us and she say's – " 120 balls...185 reasons? Achievable target isn't it girls?? Yes or no..."

And we all add in Happy loud Cheer – " achievable...Di..."

Mira di asks next – " are we all set to chase this down and run and play the game of our lives??"

We all cheer in loud unison – " Yes di...."

And she gets on with empowering us with a few more lines before Coach Maam's and Harpreet di take over again for a bit and me and Sheena Di exchange a determined silent gaze.

Bring It On Aussies!

WE – INDIA WOMAN – ARE ALL SET TO – CHASE THIS SCORE DOWN AND RUN TO PLAY THE GAME OF OUR LIVES.

INDEED.

....................................................

Before the Start of The Second Innings

Back in the Players Pavillion

Rohan takes off the earpeiece and is looking out for Arnav to hand the piece too when he spots Arnav pacing his way back into the players stand from the Family box. Rohan had just finishing giving his byte to the sport reporter Radha – from Hindu Times in support and belief that our Women's team could surely chase this down and he adds leaning against the railing of their stands as he sees Arnav walking upto him – " there you go brother..am all done...I know you wanted me to go first..because you wanted to just soak in the moment with everyone in the family box..but come on...hurry up...the second innings will begin in five to seven minutes..they want a word from you...and it is now my turn to join everyone in their before the game begins..."

Most of the other Men's Team players and the BCCI officials were lounging and chilling in the lounge in the Mid Innings Break.

Arnav nods and grins and pats his arm as he says – " thank you buddy for going first..."

And as he watches Rohan leave with a happy pat up his arm and the wink too – Arnav – finally places the earpiece into his ear and switches on the button and says into it – "Hello...."

And he hears a chirpy voice come in from the other end – " hello ASR...I am Radha from the Hindu Times...are we good to start??"

Arnav adjusts his cap on his head and leans against the stand taking in the happy ambience in the crowd and he could also see in far vision the happy faces of his family and friends in the box next door and he answers grinning – " Yes Radha..we are good to start.."

"So what do you think of the tuen of events in the Final so far ASR. 185 off 120 balls? Is it too high for a chase in a T20 World Cup Finale?? Or our women's team will get there?,"she asks.

Arnav answers taking a deep breathe – " well to be honest Radha...credit to Australia Women for putting up the high total of 184 runs after the loss of those three early wickets..however I am confident that our women's team do possess the batting line up and the grit and the determination to chase this through...I am pretty confident that this second half of the game..is going to be as interesting as the first one.."

"Sure..ASR..we have all been on the edge of our seats..and look slike such will the case going forward given the way our star openers Sheena and The Little Hit Girl bat in tandem as partners..for their performance so far in the tournament has been unbeleivable...they have the highest partnerships stands as openers in a Women's T20 World Cup ever...which is a remarkable feat in itself...isn't it? and what's the strategy that teams usually look out towards while deciding their opening batsperson combinations?,"she asks next.

Arnav continues to soak in the thrilling energy from the crowd cheering around and he answers – " totally Radha..I gotta agree with you on that...their partnership as openers is truly an asset for our Women's unit..and look when it comes to the strategy bit that you asked...so in cricket..be it in any format..T20..ODI...or even Test for that matter...it truly is all about getting those mix of combinations amidst your playing 11...and as a unit...one always looks towards cementing towards two player's partnership that has been able to take the pressure at their given spot and position in the team..be it as the opening pair or the middle order or the lower order...and if as a unit if you are able to drive those mix and combinations of players forward...it does put you in a comfortable position in the mind for sure...as in..ofcourse..what may happen on a given moment in time on the field may differ from game to game...from time to time...but in your very own headspace as Skipper you do feel sorted to think – that yes ..as a unit we are going in with our strength of the best combination mix of players we could churn out given this particular moment of time....like for us...its Rohan and Shiv's opening partnership that has given us that comfortable edge in the mind always..be it T20 or ODI for they open in perfect tandem often given us the flying start we need be it the first innings or the chase..similarly here..I think...for our women's unit...it's probably Sheena and the Little Hit Girl's opening pair that works as that comfort factor within the minds off their unit..."

"It surely does ASR..for their Skipper has been happily vocal to us about the same indeed just like you have always been happily vocal about having your opening batsmen set in the position off Rohan and Shiv..ok....now coming to the tournament statistics at hand..who do you think will race up to that top scorer of the Tournament race ASR? Since both our openers Khushi and Sheena are in the race and either of them get above a 50 – they will beat the Aussie Skipper off her lead scorer spot right now + the Aussie opening batswoman in spot 2 because of them getting out pretty early in the match today...,"she asks.

Arnav keeps his personal interests of the Heart aside and answers as from a professional third eye perspective view – " well to be honest Radha...It could be either..Sheena or Khushi..making it to that top scorer spot for they have both been beyond just phenomenal this tournament with each of them having at least 5- 6 half century's + a century to their name out of the 8 games played in the tournament till now...so yeah...as a unit..right now..we are rooting for both of them equally...and Its going to be totally exciting to watch them play and open for India tonight..."

"And ASR..we just have to say this - it truly is commendable for the entire T20 Men's unit to come out in support of the women counterparts. Its pretty special that BCCI managed to pull this off last minute isn't it??,"she asks next.

Arnav answers – " true that..it's really Special indeed..The BCCI is keen in bridging the gap of gender disparity in our sport in the public mindset at home and this is an commendable effort on their behalf to make a conscious effort as a Cricket board to do so..and like I referenced prior...we are beyond just thrilled to stand tall in pride by the side of our women's unit...for as cricketers or more so as sportspersons - each of us believe that the gender disparity in sports be it our's or any other sport in any form whatsoever needs to be done and dusted with...for sure.....as a unit we do not believe in playing along with the narrative off gender being the point of inflection of any sport/game – a reason why each of us were pretty excited to come out in support when the BCCI came out with this idea in the first place...managing to work this out...for us all.."

"and how does it feel as a unit to witness a Finale live from the stands? Usually it is you all on the field living the pressure moments of the game...,"she asks next.

Arnav answers happily – " it feels great...we are completely stoked to just witnessing a Finale from up the stands...for like you said... it totally is a different feeling when you aren't the one living in those intense pressure moments of the game and just enjoying a good game of cricket...so yes.. we are pretty pumped to be the ones to witness the excitement from a spectator angle this time around...,"and he turns around to look towards the ground as he sees the rest of his team players flood back into the box – signalling him that the second innings was about to begin and he pauses as his eyes fall on the figure off His Sparkle deep in conversation with Sheena near the dug out – all set and padded up for Play.

He adds politely into the earpiece – " ok Radha..the game is about to begin..shall we wrap up??"

She says instantly – " yes indeed...thank you so much for your time ASR...nice chatting up with you as always.."

" Thank you Radha...nice chatting up..I will have the ear piece sent over with a member off my support team unit right back to you in a jiffy..,"answers Arnav politely and with that he finally takes off the ear – piece and requests with one of his support staff unit to help him return the same near the media box near the ground.

And once done he turns back around to now see the thrilling sight of his Sparkle walking up the field with Sheena towards their beloved 22 yards as the Aussie players take their spots on the field too.

Love and Pride continue to consume his Being as he sees His Sparkle walk the Distance to the Pitch alongside Sheena – the determined vibe in her body language not missing his eye even for a second.

It is right then he hears the Indian crowd around him cheer in a – I- N-D-I-A – I-N-D-I-A and he looks to the right and left in both the family boxes to see not just his family and near dear ones but also all the family members of the women's players that were in the other box – cheer on loud with the Crowd roaring their Flags in Hand.

It is right then he hears Ravi, Rohan's and Cap's voice from behind him as they ask in unison gesturing Arnav to take his seat now – " always feels great to hear this Rhythmic Chant – doesn't it?"

Arnav nods and they all take their respective seats and Veer adds excited completely loving the atmosphere around him and he says to Arnav – " Skip...how about if we all join in the chant too..this time around...it isn't everyday we are all going to be out here together...in the stands...watching a Final..."

Arnav nods excited – "why not boys...lets totally join in the chat...,"thanking Veer silently for coming up with it and Yuvaan and Veer and Shiv gesture everyone to begin and just like that – The stands of the Sydney Cricket Ground – for the first time ever – see the Men in Blue Chant out – I-N-D-I-A in along with the rhythms of the Crowd – in support of their Women's Counterparts.

.......................................

Meanwhile Simultaneously in Madan's Village in Delhi,India

Madan stays glued to his spot in front of the Bigger TV screen in the courtyard of the Head Sarpanch's house as his Chotti (little sister) takes her spot next to him and he hears her say excitedly – " bhaiya..kitana acha hai na bade TV pe dekhna khushi didi ka match? Nai toh har time hum phone pe hi dekhte hai..."(Bhaiya..it is so good to see Khushi didi's match up live on a bigger screen right? otherwise we usally see on the phone..)

Madan nods excitedly keeping his eyes glued to the screen as he sees the image of his Khushi Didi walking up with her partner to get set to bat up on screen – " haan chotti...bahut acha lag raha hai.."(yes choti..it feels great)

Everyone in the village had gathered in the head Sarpanch's courtyard and wheeled out his TV screen to watch their Khushi Didi – play the Finals Live and Madan was the frontrunner in the row staying glued to his spot ever since the toss. The only time he had moved was to jump and cheer in happiness along with the rest of the children and adults in the village when his Khushi Didi had taken those two mind blowing catches.

He had been praying continuously for her Victory and had been sending silent wishes to her - truly content with the fact that Khushi didi had called him for five minutes before going in to play the Finale tonight.She had also shared a two minute video of herself – thanking their entire village in a heartfelt gesture - for their wonderful best wishes for the match. Madan had showed it to everyone ofcourse and this gesture from her end – truly had one everyone's heart in the village yet again!

Chotti says now to his brother – " bhaiya...aap paani toh pilo..aapne kuch bhi nai khaya subah se...aur yahan se hil bhi nai rahe ho..."( bhaiya...you atleast have water..you haven't had anything since morning in excitement..and you arent even moving from this spot..)

Madan says grinning – " Chotti tang mat kar..chal match dekh...Khushi didi ki team ko jitana hai World Cup...mujhe koi pyaas nai lagi...paani aur khana match ke baad mein..."( choti..please don't trouble me...focus on the match in hand...we have to send silent wishes to make Khushi didi's team win...I am not thirsty at all...and now I will only have water or food after the match..)

Choti nods happily knowing that she cannot get her brother away from front of the screen right now and she gestures to her mother who was standing behind that she tried her best to get her brother to listen but he wouldn't move and as she sees their mother gesture her back to let him be – she resumes her attention to the TV too.

And just like that along with every cricket lover in the village – Madan and Chotti – get set to watch their Khushi Didi play the Game of her Life with each of them sending heart-warming continuous wishes her way.

..........................

TADAAAA!!

OK GUYS – No shoes at me for Stopping on this Part here! For like I said uptil this point only its about 12.5K words and everything at once would have been too much! I hope you all enjoyed reading the essence of this First Innings and Our Sparkle – taking the Similar Successful Flying Catch OUT like she did last time at the SCG – minus the Injury this time around!! (Wink Wink)

Also yesss Do not Worry! I shall stay with my Promise of Completing the WorldCUP Final + reveal Update by the end of this week on Saturday – which means.

Coming up Tomorrow Night – WORLD CUP..HUNGAMA..AND YOU – PART 2! Please think of this update as A - Bonus Part 1(winks)

Stay Tuned in Guys for a Dramatic Chase into the WC Final!

Please continue to take necessary precautions while out and Stay Safe everyone – the Covid numbers seem to be at a Rise Again!!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love.

Always.

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