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Author Thought
I'm thrilled to share that I've begun work on my new book, Tales of Dhira — a fantasy fiction novel set in the era of the Mahabharata.
This story blends mythology, imagination, and the timeless essence of heroism and destiny.
It's only the beginning of a long creative journey, and I would be truly grateful if you could read the chapters and share your thoughts.
Your feedback and encouragement will help shape Tales of Dhira into something truly special.
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Week Five opened with a shift in tone. The mentors had seen enough matches to know where the cracks were forming. Divakar's leadership had delivered one win and three losses. His instincts were bold, but his timing was erratic. The tactical simulation wasn't a punishment—it was a recalibration.
Coach Rameshwar stood before the players. "Today is not about batting or bowling. It's about decision-making. You'll be tested on how you think, not how you hit."
Two mock teams were formed. Divakar Singh was named captain of Team Green again. But this time, a second name was added beneath his.
Vice-Captain: Nikhil Sharma
There were murmurs. Nikhil hadn't played a single match. But Raina's expression was firm. Kaif's nod was subtle. The decision had weight.
Divakar glanced at Nikhil once, then turned back to the whiteboard.
Nikhil didn't speak. He just opened his notebook and flipped to a fresh page.
Tactical Simulation – Vice-Captain's Log
Scenario 1: Defending 228 in 30 Overs
Divakar set an aggressive field—two slips, short cover, attacking lines. Nikhil leaned in and suggested pulling mid-off straighter and introducing spin early.
Divakar hesitated, then nodded. The adjustment worked—two dot overs and a mistimed loft.
Kaif whispered to Rameshwar, "He's guiding the field like a knows everyones strength."
Scenario 2: Chasing 190 with 5 wickets down at 16th Over
Divakar wanted a pinch hitter. Nikhil quietly suggested sending a stabilizer first, then accelerating from the 22nd over.
Divakar overruled him.
The pinch hitter was caught slogging.
Raina didn't react. But he scribbled something in his pad.
Scenario 3: Sudden Rain Delay – Match Reduced to 20 Overs Mid-Innings
Divakar froze. Nikhil stepped in, recalculated the target, adjusted the batting order, and proposed a revised field for the final overs.
Divakar followed the plan.
The simulation ended with Team Green winning the mock chase.
Mentor Debrief
Kaif addressed the group. "Leadership isn't just about calling the shots. It's about knowing when to listen."
Raina turned to Nikhil. "You did well."
Divakar didn't speak. But his glance toward Nikhil was different now—less dismissive, more curious.
The Brutal Session
The next day was officially a rest day.
But for Nikhil, rest was a myth.
He was in the gym by 4:30 AM, running rotation drills—jog, sprint, jog. Then planks, push-ups, pull-ups. His shirt was soaked by 6:00 AM, but he didn't stop.
By 7:30, he was on the field again.
He set the bowling machine to random speed maxing out at 135Kmph, adjusted cones, and began his solo net session:
Fast-paced overs: boundary intent, footwork drills.
Slow-paced overs: strike rotation, defensive angles.
He imagined match scenarios. He captained both teams. He bowled off-spin to imaginary batters with elite footwork.
He took short breaks—water, breath, reset.
Then back to the crease.
By 10:00 PM, the academy lights dimmed. His legs trembled. His breath was shallow. But his mind was clear.
He packed up slowly, whispered to Veer, "We did well today" and walked back to Room 101.