Raghav Sharma joined the academy the same day as Arjun.
Private school. Imported bat. Influential father.
Talent? Decent.
Ego? Massive.
From day one, Raghav hated Arjun.
"Village kid," he scoffed when Arjun walked in with a second-hand bat.
"Try not to embarrass yourself."
Arjun said nothing.
He never needed words.
During net practice, Arjun faced Raghav's bowling.
> **Observation Active**
Arjun saw it—the predictable length, the lazy wrist, the overconfidence.
First ball: straight drive.
Second: late cut.
Third: pull shot into the gap.
Clean. Effortless.
Raghav's face darkened.
The coach frowned—not impressed, but irritated.
"Don't play fancy," the coach snapped at Arjun.
"Basics first."
Arjun lowered his head obediently.
Inside, he smiled.
*Selectors don't like brilliance,* he realized.
*They like obedience.*