Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

HAPPPYYYY MONDAYYYYY!!

I Hope you all had an amazing festive Weekend. Happyyy Dusshera to you all –

So I am here with the first update of this Week. It's an almost Long Update – of about 8.7K Words.

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptill now Guys.Will be Eager to know what you all think, as alwayssss. I love to hear from you all, and I always read all your comments -grinning like an Idiot – myself!! So thank you so so so much * Infinity – indeed, for investing your precious time into my work. I am truly – Grateful* Infinity as well(wink wink). I hope you all are enjoying the reading experience, as much as I am enjoying penning it down.

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

Also please note the Timelines from here on guys – we are now – 20 more Days - forward into the Story. It's Mid- July, 2019 – in the HW2.0 – World.

Some pics of the Men in Blue appearing in the beginning of the Update.( please note - I have not given faces to all...just a few of them)

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CHAPTER 28.2 – A 'CRUISING' HIGH

20 DAYS LATER – 14TH JULY, 2019

@ HEADINGLEY CRICKET SATDIUM, LEEDS – UK

10: 00 PM – UK TIME

ARNAV'S POV

I hug onto Rohan, sideways – mid pitch and we both station our bats on the ground and I pat his arm, giving him a heartfelt smile as I say now looking around the ground at the crowd, feeling relaxed – even though the moment is a little tense in our gaming momentum – " there is surely a mix off anticipation + relaxation on the on the faces of the crowd Rohan, and a lot of uncertainty on the Sri Lankan Skippers face...which kind off is a give away that your wicket is intact, c'mon stop frowning, you are our hero today...you are on 102..and I am sure that you are going to hit the winning runs today..you and Shiv gave us the perfect start, which was exactly what we needed...you are going to take us Home, across to victory..we are going to win this game, I am confident..."

Rohan nods, and looks around at the crowd, and the nervous edgy expressions of the Sri Lankan teammates, who are grouped in a huddle, waiting in anticipation for the AV on the screen to confirm the situation around Rohan's wicket. They are hoping that their fielder's feet haven't touched the boundary line, as he caught onto that ball Rohan just fired up in a cheeky Pull Shot, on the previous delivery. And the two of us, along with the majority of the crowd present in the stadium, are obviously hoping the Opposite. Most of the crowd has come out in Our Support, in this match against Sri Lanka, which is our last group match in the league stages of the World Cup. We are already in the Top Four Position, in the points table, which means that we are making it to the Knock Out Stages anyway, but if we win this game, with the great margin that we are about too, we kind off make our way Up right at the top of the table, with an amazing boost to our run rate as well. (Which is why I am feeling all relaxed and confident, amidst this little tense gaming speed breaker).

We are in the 42nd over just now and we only need 15 runs to win, since our bowlers did a great job restricting Sri Lanka to 264/7 in the 50 overs..and like I told Rohan, Shiv and Rohan got us to a flying start, which was exactly what we needed, and initially Shiv took the lead to being aggressive and fired up some amazing shots, as Rohan anchored the other end. It was a strategical decision to send Yuvaan up at No 3, today, after Shiv lost his wicket and we were 100-1,instead of me coming out as usual at No 3, since we wanted the left hand, right hand combination to continue going on for us, given that their excellent pacers were rotating the bowling at that point.(Shiv and Yuvaan are left handed batsmen and Both Rohan and Me, are Right handed Batsmen.Yuvaan usually plays at No 4, and then we have Cap coming in at no 5 and then both are strong allrounders, Veer at 6, and Singh at No 7, and then the bowlers come in after).Yuvaan played an amazing cameo and fired a quick 25 runs in just the 10 balls he faced, before falling to an amazing unbelievable catch out pulled out successful by one of the Sri Lankan fielders, at the boundary Line.And at that point when I came out to bat – we were at 130-2 and Rohan was batting at 45, slow and steady, anchoring the innings since Shiv and Yuvaan took the lead in being aggressive.And once I came in, Rohan and me decided to take turns in being aggressive depending on the bowler and the changing pitch condition and take as many doubles as possible as well.Currently, I am batting at 63 right now and Rohan scored another 57 runs after I came in too, which means that the two of us have managed to put up a partnership off 120 runs and we are at 250 - 2 already... and if Rohan's sixer of goes through, which I have a gut feeling will go through, we will be at 256 – 2,and just in case it doesn't we will be at 250- 3, which is still a comfortable position for us, as Cap is going to come in to join me on the pitch next. But I really want Rohan to be the one to hit the Winning runs today, since he is the one who has held the Fort on the Crease, since the very first ball. I say again now, looking at the AV being played on screen – " does look safe to me Rohan..the fielder does seem to have gotten the back of his shoe on the beginning of the boundary line..."

They are obviously Rolling the imagery from various angles to – Reconfirm, the same now.

Rohan nods at me, patting my arm, smiling a little now – " yes, it looks the same to me as well Arnav, it's been a while, since the two of us our batting, nearing the finishing line...because mostly you come in to play when I am either already out, or we only are able to play briefly until I get out, it's by chance that we are two wickets down today and its us on the crease because you sent Yuvaan in after Shiv lost his wicket after his 60 runs...I am so glad they both fired the way they did..because I could take that time out to just settle in at the other end, and anticipate the pitch conditions going further..."

I grin now, patting his helmet – " it always is an absolute treat to watch you and Shiv play together... and especially today, as the two of you put up a wonderful partnership of 100 for the first wicket.."

Rohan nods and pats my arm, giving me a wink, his body language still a little worked up,waiting for the NOT OUT – to come up on board, though - " and after Yuvann's blaster of a cameo,we'v put up a partnership of 120 runs..as well my Skipper..."

I grin, looking up at the screen and the happy faces of the crowd, being blown up on screen, now – " and I couldn't be happier.., also,that's going to be 126, because I am sure...that six from you just went through..i think the Not-OUT will come in the next ten seconds now..relax now...will you??"

Rohan chuckles as he says – " you know I am so tensed because I'd obviously hate to be announced OUT right now, I just hate it when I am in the middle of these probably catch out moments with the cheeky pull shot, minutes after I celebrate the moment of a century...I was pretty confident that I had fired that all through across the boundary cover.."

I nudge his arm as the decision is just seconds away from coming up on screen – " well it almost went all the way through, Rohan - how could you anticipate the fielder making that unbelievable jump into the air?? We do have to give it to him for that commendable effort though surely, by the end of the match.."

Rohan nods and smiles as we punch in our gloves happily– " we surely will...". We obviously prioritize the Spirit of Sportsmanship, always.

Right then the Not- Out Comes on Board for Rohan and we both hug each other happily sideways and then fist our gloves together one more time and I say – grinning – " just freaking 9 runs to win Rohan..c'mon off you go..and finish this for us..."

Rohan pats my arm with a happy wink – " well, how about I just take the single next and you take the lead in firing the next over...you are at 63 as well...I'd like to see a 70 up on the board for you...I am all happy with my 108 already...let's do this together brother..and take India right on top of that league table, in the ICC World Cup Tournament of 2019..."

I chuckle now as I pat his shoulder one more time – " Ok then..my deputy...let's do this together..."(Deputy, because he's the Vice- Captain)

And we return to our crease happily to Continue with the rest of the Game – both our heads and hearts content with the fact that we were just minutes away from taking our country to that No 1. Spot on the League table, straight into that confirmed spot in first semi finals – to be held in a couple of days from now on the 17th July – at the old Trafford cricket Stadium, in Manchester.

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30 MINUTES LATER

ARNAV POV CONTINUES

I am obviously grinning along with Cap, Veer, Shiv, Ravi, and the rest of the boys on the field, as we stand huddled in the corner, listening to Rohan give his interview after receiving the Man of the Match, award.

Cap pats my shoulder happily now as he says – " Arnav, Veer and I, were talking amongst ourselves in the dug out when they were just rechecking the fielders foot around the boundary line, when Rohan fired up that cheeky pull shot over mid-on, that today Our Skipper and vice captain, are playing with so much momentum, that I most surely didn't think that we were going to get the turn to bat, today.."

We all chuckle and I grin at Cap, happily – " and all thanks to you my Cap, for those two brilliant stumpings, upfront in the 6th and the 7th over of their first innings, as we got both their top order batsmen's wickets in those consecutive overs.."and I look at Ravi and Singh and wink at them – " those two balls were both killer ones from the two of you...and the two of you claimed two wickets each as well.."and I go onto look at the rest of our bowling unit,which has been the exact balance off spin, swing and pace in the tournament comprising of Khan,Kumar and Bedi, as I say – " and a wicket each for each of you as well boys..i can proudly say that today, was a comprehensive performance with the ball and on the field as well during fielding, because we knew from the start that the pitch was going to turn in the second innings and suit the batting conditions much more, after..."

Ravi and Veer, and Singh say in unison, grinning – " which is why , we chose to bowl first, right, Skipper??"

I nod happily and Cap nudges me to the side as he says – " cmon now...you go on next, for the winning Captain's interview...,"and I hug Cap from the side happily , keeping up with the tradition I like to follow every time whether we win or lose, ever since he stepped down as Captain and I took over – " yes I will..but not without a hug from my Golden Captain, first.."

Cap grins and hugs me back happily and ruffles my hair too as we all share a warm laugh as a unit and Khan says now – " oh they won't just spare Rohan today.."

I chuckle at that, as I look back at Rohan still in the middle of that interview with the presenter and Cap, and me say proudly at the same time – " and they most surely shouldn't as well, since after that excellent 110 not out today, he is now much ahead in the line for the maximum run scorer in the tournament as well.."

We all high five each other happily and Ravi says now, winking – " oh wait, they are all done now, you go on now Arnav, cmon hurry up...we need to finish up with the presentation and everything fast, so that we can get on with all the celebration..after.."

Oh Yes Ravi. True That. We do need to get this bit done fast, so that I can get to the locker room and just switch on my phone and get connected with my Sparkle, as well – already. I am sure, I have like a string of text messages from her, in our chat – awaiting to be read as usual.

I nod at everyone and make my way up to the Presentation area now, hugging Rohan one more time happily on the way.

The minute I reach up, readjusting my Cap on my head – I am obviously all smiles, as most of the crowd that had come out in our support starts to cheer and root for – I-N-D-I-A.

I-N-D-I-A

The presentor is all Smile's too as he asks now – " ASR, well the smile/or rather the grin on your face, really says it all. But I am still going to go about with my question – You must be feeling really proud of the unit as Skipper Today? Today was a clinical performance, in all three categories, the ball, fielding and then obviously with the bat, since you and Rohan took it upon yourselves to take India across to the finish line today and straight to the top of the points table as well. The teams sitting right on Top, now with Australia at No 2. The Men in Blue seem to be having just a wonderful tournament all together, you all are big favourites for the Win, here in England too ,just obviously – second to our Home Team, England..."

I nod with a grin – " ofcourse...we are in England, afterall...but to be honest it doesn't feel like it, you know because of the massive support that we receive from the fans , irrespecitive of playing the World Cup away from home.. "

The presenter nods – " exactly, even today, the stadium has been a roaring sea of Indian Jersey's.."

I nod and say into the Mike – " and I'd like to take this exact moment to just thank all our fans for coming out in such huge support..."

The STADIUM ERUPTS INTO THE CHANT OF I-N-D-I-A. AGAIN.( A hymm that always warms my heart)

The Presenter grins – " there you go ASR, that chant surely aint going to stop tonight.." and I nod at him happily and he continues to ask now – " ok so back to the tournament, You'v all played 9 games so far, won 7 out of those 9, lost just One and the other one with NZ was a washout resulting in no result... and look at that boost in the run rate, after today's win by 8 wickets, well in the margin of 43.3 overs as well..."

I nod and smile as I say – "yes,I am really happy with the way we have all come together and performed as a unit, this tournament , for the grit in the team spirit and performance has been commendable, with every individual stepping up and taking the responsibility on the field in the given moment of time as and when required in the games, most of which have been very high pressure games as well...so yes, as you can see by most of our smiling faces, that we are happy to be finish our last game in the league stages with a clinical win...proud of the way, everyone's performed all throughout the tournament..and especially today, Ravi, Singh, Khan, Bedi, Kumar were brilliant with the ball....Veer and Yuvaan took on two catches each as well in the field as well...I think we should just officially declare Cap as the King of Stumpings, since he pulled those Two, out for us in a fraction of a second,..".We pause on to share a little laugh for a second and I go on then – " and then ofcourse Shiv's excellent knock of 60 up front in that brilliant partnership with Rohan for the first wicket, gave us the exact momentum we needed, Yuvaan was brilliant with his fired up Cameo as well..." and the presenter Grins and says pausing me in between – " and then obviously the Skipper and his Vice-Captain had the time of their lives, playing in that brilliant partnership...it was brilliant to watch ASR, truly," and I grin as I reply – " thank you so much, I really enjoy batting with Rohan..we don't often go uptill the point of getting chances to finish the games since one of us loses the wicket or something, so yes, it was great out there, to see him go all out with his shots, I mean, just what can I say that hasn't been already said about my buddy, or as we call him the hit man of our team...he played an exceptional innings tonight as well.....and like I always say, the non-strikers end is the best seat in the house.."

The presenter smiles – " ofcourse it is, Rohan said the same thing about being in awe of that last winning shot, that came off your bat in a beautiful backfoot straight drive. Well to be honest, in my opinion the non - Stricker's end and the Wicket keeper's position both happen to be the best seat in the house.."

I chuckle as I nod – " oh yes, for sure...Cap agrees...totally...we can ask him.."and I gesture with my hand to ask Cap the same and he gives us all a thumbs up from across – grinning, and I say now – " so that bit gets affirmed by our very own Legendary Golden Cap + the king of wicket keeping, once again.."

The presenter nods and smile and looks at Cap – " thank you Dev for that..." and Cap just grins back at him as well with a thumbs up as well. He goes on now – " it was also heartwarming to see both you and Rohan greet the SriLankan, skipper – the minute the game finished, since he was right behind the stumps, keeping the wickets..and I thought I spotted both you and Rohan talking to the bowler to hit his foot on the boundary line, while trying to attempt that catch out towards the attend..."

I nod with a smile – " yes...ofcourse...look despite the fact that his foot hit the boundary line that was a phenomenal effort, would have been an epic catch going down in the history of catch outs, and we obviously wanted to commend the effort, also we know Sagha well...as international cricketers for each of our respective countries, we play against each other so often, and then sometimes also together in the IPL, and over the years, there's this genuine respect and amiability for we all respect each other as sportspersons greatly and I think that should be priority as well, the winning and losing bit obviously comes with its set of high's and lows in terms of the gaming emotions, but in the end, it's all in the spirit of the game..."

The presenter nods, grinning – "it truly is..we all know how important sportsmanship is to you and the Indian team as well, which is why you all are also on the top of that table, of the fair play award this tournament..."and I thank him politely once again and he goes onto ask me a couple of more questions, which I quickly answer, before we end the one on one about three minutes later, and I join the rest of my team and we start to make our way down the ground – cheering each other on – happily.

Ravi falls back in his steps behind me now and he asks, nudging me – " ok the smile on your face tells me that you are obviously thrilled with the victory and everything, but I know, you can't wait to switch on your phone to talk to her..."

I chuckle at that as I say – " yup true that...just like I know that the extra length in your grin is coming up your face because Noor, is arriving day after, along with Akash, Payal and Samaira to watch us play the Semi's in Manchester...and Cap did say that Sachi maam is coming along too right? with baby Z?"

Cap's beautiful daughter is two years old. Her name is Zara. We all call her, Baby Z, fondly.

Ravi grins and winks at me – " yes she is coming along with Baby Z...and yup, true that – th elegtn of my grin surey has everything to do with the love of my life, I am telling you ASR, you, me, Rohan, Cap, really need to thank these guys for always coming out in our support so often...whether it's the IPL or any of the ICC's major tournaments – they always make the effort...it isn't easy obviously...you know to make time off their schedules all the time...but they do..for our sake.."

I nod at him – " I know what you mean..Akash's in his last semester off his executive MBA course with Indian Business school as well...he mostly has classes online spread over the weeked, since it's the executive course specializing in family business and everything and all of them are busy working during the week as well – so it really is amazing of my brother to come out in my support all the time balancing in between his studies and the hectic work during the week as well – you know Dad wants him to take over two more verticals, along with the two business verticals he is already handling as well..."

Rohan pauses in his steps upfront next to Veer and falls back next to us and says – " yup guys, I agree, Samaira's also made so much changes in her work schedule, so that she could come along with Akash, Payal and Noor , Sachi maam.."

Ravi nods – " Noor literally worked her entire work schedule around as well...guys, we most surely need to express our gratitude out more often, I am telling you all...lets totally do that, the minute we see them..in days from now.."

We nod in a collective agreement to that and Rohan says, now – " Akash did tell me that it's a bummer that Anjali has her MBA graduation ceremony on the same day as our semi's or else she would have been there in the stands too.."

I nod – " yes guys, she would have been there surely otherwise...you know since Nottingham isn't very far from Manchester anyway...but I do think she has plans to make it there by the mid- innings...I mean I did meet up with her, when we were in Nottingham for our match with NZ..for those couple of days.."

Rohan nods – " yea...it was a bummer that, the match was a wash out though..."

I grin – " oh yes...Bummer totally.."

Ravi grins – " well we all know how much you love playing at the Nottingham Trent Bridge Cricket Stadium..Arnav..."

If only I could tell them right now – that – cricket is not the only reason why I am so fond off the Nottingham Trent Bridge Cricket Stadium.( on that note – guys – obviously while I was on Nottingham , I totally visited Our Spot and got onto a video call with My Sparkle whilst I was there, as we reminisced about our moments there, paying extra time at reliving the one in which we first met.Also I obviously did catch up with Rahul and Anjali as well and the two of them did say – that they will be trying their best to make it to the stadium mid innings, incase we do reach the Semi's.)

Ravi says now – " well lets hope Anjali can make it – otherwise hopefully they will all be together at the Lords, watching us play that final...guys, just imagine...we are only probably two games away from the World CUP, how epic will it be – if we win this time around, for Cap especially, since we know he might not be playing by the 2023 world Cup.."

Rohan and me nod, smiling – " Hopefully yes Ravi, we shall win, and make it to the finals, and maybe win that too..."

We all high Five each other, happily and we say in unsion – " For India, with Love..."and as we are all nearing the dressing area, Rohan and Ravi each of them nudge into my sides now with mischievous winks as they ask unison – " okkk, so Arnav..c'mon...you tell us...what about your secretive someone? Is she coming to see you play the Semi's??"

I chuckle at their teasing tone as I say honestly – " she really wishes, she could...but no guys, she is really tied up with her professional commitments and I obviously understand, but she will surely be watching though.."

Ravi and Rohan roll their eyes as they say – " what a bummer...and here, we thought, we would at least get to know who she is, by now...but NO...you wouldn't tell us even though we can feel that things are really serious for you...you guard her identity like a Hawk..why so??"

I wink at them as I say – " you all will know why, the minute you know who she is...hopefully soon..."and I pause as I say with a sincere smile – " and yes it's true that I am into her, very seriously guys.."

They nod at me as they say, after pondering a couple of seconds deep in thought – " we figure you have a serious reason behind guarding who she is.."

I nod honestly and sincerely – " I do guys..."

They nod at me and pat my arms from each of the sides – " ok...then..we take your word for it...we know you will tell us soon..as long as you are happy man, that's actually what matters at the end of the day.."

I nod at them – happily now – " yes ofcourse , like I said, I am sure...she is the real deal. The one I am keen to have by my side for the rest of my life..so you will all obviously meet her sooner or later...for sure.."

Rohan and Ravi gape at me now as they look at one another and say, once again in unison – " wait what? did he just say that he is keen on having her next to him, for the rest of his life?? Which basically means, that he is in love with her..." and they look at me in a happy amused expression as they ask – "we are right? aren't we??you love her? Arnav...you are in love????

I chuckle at their expression as I say, sincerely – " it brings me great pleasure, to report that the two of you are right indeed, I am head over heels in love with her.."

Ravi asks, happily grinning and amused – " and is she in love with you too?? As in.."

Rohan completes the sentence for him, as he chips in happily – " as in, have you told her yet??"

I grin again, as I wink at them – " well to answer those questions, one by one, yes, off late, I have been getting that vibe that's she's probably realised that she is in love with me too, but no...I haven't confessed that to her yet, I plan to do the same soon though, most surely before we leave for our tour to West Indies, by the 28th of this month, because obviously I do not want to confess this out to her on the video call.."

Rohan and Ravi pat each of my arms as they side hug me, happily – " well, the grin on your face gives your happiness away once again Arnav..we are happy for you, so very happy..." and I thank them, and Rohan says now – " you are totally bringing her to the wedding..."(he's talking about His and Samira's wedding that is scheduled in September after our return from West Indies)

I shake my head as I say honestly – " I wish I could, but I can't since she will be travelling for work..she won't be in the country, then" ( Khushi, will be in South Africa for her cricketing tour with India Women at that time – everyone.)

Rohan and Ravi shake their heads, groaning – " what a bummer again.."

I nod as I say – " a tad bit little, yes...but I respect her love for her work – guys, I mean why must I not, if she can understand my bit, I surley can understand her's too right??"

They both smile and nod at me in unison but before Rohan or Ravi can say anything now, we are all distracted in the moment, as rest of the boys in the team along with the support team members and the coaches, go into a loud cheer mode within the Dressing Room area and we see Veer coming our way from inside now as he says grinning – " oh here are you three...everyone's waiting in for you the three of you...c'mon guys...the celebrations already started in the dressing room..."

Ravi winks at me and Rohan as he says – "looks like we are going to have to wait for a couple of more minutes, until we can get around to switching our phone, guys.."

Rohan and me, nod happily and make our way in to join the rest of the Unit in the Mini Celebrations.

About seven minutes later, as we all finally pause on our group celebrations, I finally make my way to my locker, open it and switch on my phone, first thing – as I do the recalculation of Indian Time, in My Head right now.

Yup.

I am back to Grinning like an Idiot.

Why?

Because, I realise - that my Sparkle would be reaching the Airport soon – like any minute now. Or maybe she has reached – already.She's got her flight to UK, in about three Hours from now. She is landing at the Heathrow tomorrow, which is Monday and will be travelling alongside Sheena to Taunton immediately to join the rest of her teammates from Western Storm, who are all collecting in a group together at Taunton,and they will all be busy with the training camp being conducted during the week ,which is why she cannot obviously make it to see the Semi's in Manchester, for it's scheduled on Wednesday, which is right in the middle of the week. I asked her to not even worry about this, because I obviously understand, that it's more important for her to Focus, on mixing up with the new playing group and understand the dynamics off it , and adapt to the role that they will be expecting off her, since this is all new to her. Also on that note – in the domestic 50 over team tournament, that Khushi was playing – her team as in Delhi lost out in the Semi's by just 10 runs short. Railway Women – once again eventually went onto win the Domestic Tournament. Khushi was obviously bummed out over the same, for the couple of hours after the game, over this development – and I made sure, I was there by her side,virtually, talking to her through it, until she felt better.

I open my Whtsapp now, and quickly read through the string of texts, that she's left me through out the game, with my hearts beating all fast in happiness as I am going through them all, and I also pick on my energy drink to drip on it, side by side, while I am amidst my reading My Sparkle's texts spree and my eyes now fall on the last one she's left from about seven minutes ago –

Her : Ohkkk...Ohkkkk...Arnav...the presentation just finished, and I obviously saw you walking towards the dressing room, alongside everyone. Like I am super sure, some celebrations will be on in the dressing room, so I know you might see my texts in like what ten minutes or something...acha...listen na...anyways...i am sure you have figured it out by my previous texts, which were filled with dancing happy emoticons, that I am totally going Beserk in Happiness, in my head right now. LIKE – INDIA FINISHES ON TOP OF THE TABLE IN THE GROUP STAGES!! YOU ARE ALL HEADING INTO THE FIRST SEMI'S.Who is Dancing? Me Surely – in my head, though as in otherwise everyone around me in the car, will think I have lost my Marbles.(winks and hearts) And oh yes,we are almost reaching the airport – and please note – I am totally watching the repeat of the last winning moments from the match as well, with my earphones all plugged into my ears, all tuned into Hotstar, because duh as you know I obviously love to see you so happy in your celebrations ya....and obviously am totally also watching the repeat of the presentation as well, you know because the cameramen usually focus on your face quite a bit during that one on one interview with the presenter as Skipper and I obviously get a clearer look at the happiness dancing in your eyes....but...like OH MY God – just gotta say this again – that was a Freaking Amazing WIN – Skipper Blue. It was so amazing to see you and Rohan Sir, play in partnership ya...and that last winning shot off your bat, the killer backfoot straight drive, it was a Beauty indeed. YOUR WRIST WORK IS THE BEST. PERIOD. Also, the Internet has gone beserk already though with articles like the Indian Skipper and his Deputy seal the deal for India's spot in the first Semi's - India's Top order batsmen have been brilliant this world Cup...etc etc...and I am obviously like reading them all as well..like side by side..hehe...Acha..listen na...message me jaldi se, when you reach the dressing room ok...I do want to chat with a little, before we all get busy with the airport check in, and then security check in formalities and everything...we can surely get on a call after we are all lounging in after the security check is done....acha waiting for your message now....text text..jaldi se...waiting....(hearts) Congratulationssssssssssssssssss and Celebrationssssssssssssss!!(Hearts)

I chuckle as I quickly text back.

Me : Hey you...Sparkle, thank you so much for the wishes.also,apologies for the couple of minutes delay in replying for I was first going through the messages you'd left throughout the game. I just have to say this again – I absolutely love to come back to the locker after a game – to read the strings of texts from You. Also, have you reached the airport ?? please tell me you have?? You know since I can't wait for you to freaking get on that plane...and land into Heathrow(wink)

My phone beeps in three seconds.

Her : helloooooooooooo my Skipper Blueee....reaching the airport in about fifteen minutes or so now. Also – as your text just came,like I mentioned earlier my eyes were totally busy basking in the sight off my Stranger, on Screen in the post-match presentation, or on those articles, being roared up online as well – they have now obviously diverted their attention to Whtsapp. I ammmm sooooooooooooooooo Happpyyyyy for You...yaaaa.....i know what this means to you obviously ya...(hearts) I totally Love that smile on your face – Arnav. I am sure, you are still smiling that way. Also, have you spoken to everyoneeee, back at home???They must be thrilled. Oh wait – you did say that you'd asked Uncle, aunty and Dadi to just catch up on the nights sleep and see the results of the match tomorrow as the match was day and night UK time.

I grin as I take my seat on the bench near my locker – continuing to sip on my energy drink – which turned miraculously sweeter on ts own accord.

Me : yes I totally am grinning the same way, and you know it isn't just because of the Win! Its because of You, as well. And yes, its almost 11PM now Sparkle, which means its almost 330 am in India. I will speak to everyone in the morning. Asked Akash to sleep through as well, he has that board meeting tomorrow at office with Dad at 8 am. I do have texts from everyone awaiting to be read in the family group, which they must have left me, before they slept. Do have a missed call from both Rahul and Anjali, though – will speak to them in a bit.

Her : Oh yessss..ofcourse...am sure you are going to get some texts from Dad too, in the morning – all excited ones(Wink)

Me : and you know I really like to talk to him on One on One.(wink)

Her : aheemmmm...My Stranger is adamant on gaining some brownie points, surely. Your consistency is commendable, Skipper Blue.(Wink)

Me : oh you know I am more than just adamant. Do I get some bonus kisses for that excellent consistent record?

Her : haha..you most surely know you do.(hearts)acha also...bhai is texting me from the other end as well, asking if I have reached the airport and everything too...he also just texted that he's too bummed just like Anjali that their graduation ceremony is on the same day as your SEMI's and is hoping that they can make it their in time...I just couldn't tell him, that my dear Superbro – you are worried about making it to Manchester in time for the Semi's. I am obviously Super Bummed about the fact that I will not be able to make it At All. I am sorry, once again – Arnav..i really wish that I could be there in the stands...to see you play the World Cup – semis ya...

My Heart warms up at that and I smile. I obviously know – she wants to be there for me – badly.

Me : Oh Cmon, Sparkle – we have discussed this before. You do not need to worry about it at all. I obviously understand. Your weeks going to be all hectic in the training camp with Western Storm...and this is priority too...

Her : I know that you do understand...but nonetheless ya..i am obviously bummed out, because you are my Heart's priority as well...so it's obvious for me to feel this way...that even though I will be in the UK, I will not be able to make it to the Semi's...

Me : Can you stop frowning please?

Her : you obviously figured out that I was...

Everyone – there's only one way to get her to stop feeling bad about this. I am going to get to writing that out – now.

Me : ofcourse...like I always say – Sparkle. I don't like that frown on you. Cheer Up, will you please? and if you frown this way, then I should be in a state of perpetual sulk surely...since I have been dying to come see you play Live...and now that you will be playing in the Kia Super League in the UK , I surely could have without raising much suspicion on the personal account but I still can't because of the way our cricketing schedules clash and we are going to leave on the West Indies tour in just a week after the world Cup is over, by the 28th of this month...so yup guess who is sulking and frowning now? Me – for Sure.

Her : Ohh pleaseee...Arnav...don't say that..i obviously understand na....and more so I know you will be watching me play live online as and when you can...so don't you worry about it at all thike? And the Kia Super League, only starts by the 1st of August and you will be in the West Indies,by then anyway..acha thike...I promise...I have wiped my frown off my face...you please do the same....as well now...

Mission Accomplished.

Me : ok Sparkle, if you say so...I am in the middle of wiping that frown off my forehead as well...

Her : yes...please doooo that...also see...what matters is that we are with each other nonetheless right? Remember – the magnet has its superpowers at work in full swing...as always...I mean Skipper Blue..iv said this to you before and I am saying it again – all this while apart in real time, has added a lot more of those infinity powers to my already Crazy * infinity state for you(hearts).

Me : true that Sparkle...true that...you know it's the same for me.i mean Just when I think I can't fall deeper for you. I do. You'v officially driven me Bonkers. Can't freaking wait to see you dammit...

Her : only returning the favour...My Stranger...and I can't wait to see you too dammit...you know that don't you?

Me : yes, I do know that...Sparkle...

Her : ohhh weekend be here already? Remember how I've been counting days until id be getting on the plane to come to the UK?now its like I am counting days to the Weekned...(hearts)

An heartwarming smile returns to my lips – as my Heart basks in a State of Comfortable Serenity as I recall, how my Sparkle's eyes have been giving a lot more off her intense emotions to me off late.Guys, my perception is that there are high chances that she's realised that she is in love with me too – and that is why I have my gut instinct telling me that this time when I meet her – will be that right time to just confess out my love for her.

Me : you'v been counting days Sparkle. and I have been keeping a track of the hours and minutes as well...(Wink)

Her : oh reallyyyy??????(wink)

Me : oh yes...surely...also yes on that note - my frowns all out now as am totally focusing on the brighter side – you have the weekend free, which means that we are going to figure out a way to meet somehow by then..for sure. I am going to make it happen.

Her : ohhhh yaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyieee...yes....also you know I am all praying for you all to make it to the finals which in on Sunday – so I will totally figure out a way of catching up with you on Saturday surely and be able to wish you all the best for the final ache se, in real time...(Winks)

I chuckle as I read that.

Me : Disclaimer well in advance : I might just not let you get any words out though. Iv been aching to kiss You. and I think when I finally feel your lips under-mine, this time around...I might not be able to pull away for hours.

Her : uffff yaaaa....Mr Stranger...you cant do this , thike? Like stop...just stop putting me into Heinz mode, like at 3:40 am in the morning...(hearts) or else Harpreet di and Sheena di will obviously wonder, whats up with me? Jess obviously knows...also , P.P.S – you know, Jess and me still can't believe that we will be playing for Separate teams, this time around –as you know it's like the first time Everrrr, because we have always played together, be it domestic or national and this time she will be playing for the Surrey Stars alongside Harpreet di, where as Sheena di and me will be playing for Western Storms. The four of us, were obviously discussing the same, as well as we were watching your match up on Hotstar, in transit to the airport. Its going to be an interesting experience though, for sure, the one we are all looking forward too because we are all keen to observe onto what we can learn from each of these teams and bring it back to the national dressing room, eventually... there's surely a lot to learn out of this opportunity..(fingers crossed emoticon)

Oh yes, everyone – a brief context to this development. A couple of days after Khushi finalised her contract with Western Storm , Jess was approached by one of the gaming scouts of Surrey Stars through Harpreet(who plays for the team in the Kia Super League), since they were in a look out of a batswomen to strengthen their middle order – after the present WI batswomen in their squad opted out off the tournament last minute, citing some personal issues, and since their teams gaming scout was present at the ODI's in between England women and India women in feb, she did get Jess on her scout list as a potential all-rounder strength player in the middle order, since that's the position she also plays in, for India Women. So now – four of our India women players will be playing in the Kia Suer League this year – Sheena, Harpreet , Khushi and Jess. And it's obvious that this is huge for both Khushi and Jess, because since this gives them the added opportunity to showcase more of their gaming mettle to the board officials, back in India. The two of them are obviously elated and happy and very determined to play to their best potential.

I quickly reply back now.

Me : oh yes Sparkle, not only will you learn but will truly enjoy the gaming experience. I am sure of that..its surprising how there are so many diverse perspectives, to similar things. Also yes, that's the best way to go about the participation in the leagues. Use the opportunity to learn and observe from the diversity of the players pool, and see what can be adapted back in the national team. We do that all the time as well. After we finish the IPL, we all literally have group meetings, to discuss what was the new element we picked up on and learnt this year, from our respective teammates in the IPL and how would we like to implement that learning back into national unit.

Her : I knowwww right....Arnav...like I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am to just be getting this opportunity to absorb the experience ya...as in now that I am just like a day away from joining the Western Storm unit for real...the crazy about cricket me – is obviously experiencing a lot of thrill, within. Also acha..remember I did tell you that Sheena Di and me will be taking the train straight out to Taunton, after we land in Heathrow..

Me : yes you did, Sparkle...you also did say that Harpreet and Jess will be heading to Surrey,right then. Heathrow is where you will all, also divert in your ways..

Her : oh yes.......also oh my god, I wish I could send you a pic of Jess smiling to herself right now. She's surely got Vikram on her mind..she's obviously uber excited that he will be in UK in August as well, as he will be playing some matches for the Guards POLO Club.On that note – do want to tell you again, that Hridhaan will be here in the UK in August too, since they both play matches for the Guards Polo club in the same team,and just incase Jess and Vikram meet up and everything, I might just be running into him too by default of the situation..thike??? just saying again, because I obviously want you to know...like pehle se only that this might happen...as in I will obviously tell you about it as and when it happens as well though...I mean I obviously want you to be comfortable na about the situation...that's my priority, obviously...(hearts)

I chuckle as I read that.She's literally listing that bit out to me for the fifth time – guys. She obviously told me about this, the minute she got to know this from Shivi and Jess.

Me : Godammit you...I wish I could kiss you right now. Also,don't worry about it Sparkle. I am more than just comfortable with the situation...ask me why?

Her : why?

Me : because I trust you more than anything in the world, obviously.

Her : ( line of Heartssss)

Me : on that note – like I told you before, I'd just be envious of anyone who gets to be around you often, because you very well know that I'd love to take their place..(wink)

Her : haha...yes I know...but like as if...you can't do that though..My Mr India...you be where you are thike...you gotta keep rocking the 22 yards for our India no..i am with you only...always...virtually hi sahi...(heartssss)

I chuckle.

Me : get on that plane, fast ...will you please? its amazing to even think that we are going to be in the same time zone soon, after 40 freaking days..

Her : I know rightttt, Arnav...like Finalllyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!! Atleast for a bit, I am going to put the dual clock face off my phone screen you know I have two on - One for My Time, and one for Your's Also, yes, happy to report that we are just pulling into the airport...ill text you back in a bit, thike? After am done with all the formalities...also am sure you all must be getting ready to get on the team bus as well....sooo lets text in a bit then...(hearts)

Me : yes we are, Sparkle ..everyone's all set to leave..i'm just going to wind up too, quickly since I have been obviously chilling and relaxing on the bench, sipping on my energy drink while chatting with you, all this while now..will text you from the bus then? Also there going to be a celebration once we reach the hotel, but I am going to make my way up to the room, first on the pretext of changing so that we can get onto a little talk...

I get on with my winding up side by side, with my head partially dipped into my Phone.

Her : I'd love that ofcourse..we should be done by the security check and everything in the meanwhile also, by then, so lets speak soon..but no video call will be possible thike? Since I am in a public space..pata chale..anyone around me, spots you on my screen and they will be like – Oh wait...is that our Captain ASR?(winks)

Me : I know Sparkleee..dont worry about it. All I need is to be connected to you. Be it through text, voice or virtual video or real time. You are the Core of the Need.

Her : You are too...for me...Arnav..also..can I say something..?

Me : please doo...Sparkle..

Her : this time when we meet na...I do have something very important that I want to talk about...remind me will you please? when we are together? As in as much as I'd like to spend my hours just kissing you – I do want to talk to you about this...

Me : ok Sparkle, know what? I have something very important to talk to you as well...which most definitely can't wait as well as in I do not want to push it further as well..

Her : realllyyyyy???? okkk great then, I will remind you about it, incase we get all lost in taking each others breath away..(wink and hearts)...acha...don't reply now thike, I am getting off the car now..tata..for a while...speak soon...

I chuckle as I put my phone away now and finish winding up and join the rest of the team as well all start making our way back to the Bus.

Everyone's busy in Celebrating the Gaming Victory.A part off me, is doing the same as well.But the Goner that my Heart is in Love – can't help but feel it's beat fasten on its own accord as it basks in the gut intuition – that tells me – that now, when we meet Next – Khushi and me are going to be having the conversation about – being madly in Love with one another.

And I can't freaking wait, to tell her how deeply I feel for her, since you all know iv been harbouring it all within me for quite a bit now and more so, all this time apart from her in real time , has only heightened and deepened my love for her and it's about time – that My Sparkle knows, how madly, badly and deeply – I love her.

About time – Indeed.

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TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Update Guysssss?? (wink winkkkkk.....)

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments.

Also guys – I have entered both Hit Wicket 2.0 & Chaotic 2.0 in the Indian Legion – Tricolour Triennial Awards, and the contest entries have closed as the Judging has now begun, and all participants have received the participant sticker for the same. Would like to share it with you all.

Also, I will be entering both Hit Wicket My Heart and Chaotic Wires of Love – in the Wattpad India Awards, 2020 in the Fanfiction Category – the submissions of which has just opened today as well. For the fanfiction category – its going to be like Popular Choice awards..as in they will shortlist a final list of Nominations from all the entries received in the genre and then Open out the selected list of Nominations for a round of Voting!!!! Fingers crossed to Making it to that Nomintaion List. But irrespective of what happens – just so Happy to Participate.

Next Update : Shall now be on Wednesday Evening.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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