As the match rolled into its middle overs, Raj's role solidified without ceremony. No one announced him as the leader. No one asked for confirmation. But the proof was in motion: bowlers checked with him before each over. Fielders adjusted when he stepped left. Even the substitute runner shadowed Raj's movements when preparing to sprint.
The field didn't just reflect his decisions.It absorbed his calm.
When Team A started accelerating in the 7th over, launching into back-to-back boundaries, some fielders panicked. The youngest spinner lost his line and sent two wides down leg. The keeper flinched on a sharp bounce, letting it slip for four. Murmurs started to rise again.
Raj called time.
He didn't lecture.
He didn't scold.
He walked to the bowler, placed a hand on his back, and tilted his head toward fine leg.
"Switch field pressure. Pull off-side mid by four steps. Stay with your natural arc. Don't force turn."
The bowler exhaled.
Nodded once.
