Squad selection day had always been noisy.
Players watched livestreams from their dorms, cafeterias, and campus grounds. Coaches huddled silently in offices. Family members texted prayers, encouragements, and pressure. Social media buzzed with predictions, leaks, and mock drafts.
But Raj sat alone, not watching the screen.
He sat at his desk, polishing the edge of his RajCraft glove,not for use, but for respect. His squad had performed. His traits had triggered. His presence had led silently through storms.
And yet, a part of him didn't expect celebration.Real legacy never arrived wrapped in noise.
The broadcast began exactly at 10:00 AM. No countdown. No music. Just the National Selection Board emblem and a plain scroll of text that started to appear line by line.
INDIA NATIONAL CRICKET DEVELOPMENT SQUAD – FINAL 22
A host narrated names aloud.
