Chapter 17 : U-19's

The coach's voice remained steady as he continued, "You'll have to report in a month. That gives you some time to prepare before joining the team."

Advay gave a slight nod, even though the coach couldn't see him. A month. That was enough time to fine-tune his game even further.

"Understood, Coach. I'll be ready."

The coach chuckled. "I expected nothing less from you. Enjoy the rest of your vacation, kid. You've earned it."

As the call ended, Advay lowered the phone, his eyes drifting toward the vast ocean stretching endlessly before him. Advay lowered his phone and turned back toward his family. The waves continued crashing gently onto the shore, but his mind was already shifting toward what lay ahead. He took a deep breath, feeling the crisp ocean breeze against his skin as he walked back to where Arjun, Ilana, and Aditi were still enjoying the peaceful beachside.

Arjun, ever perceptive, noticed his approach first. He pushed his sunglasses up onto his head, tilting his head slightly. "Something on your mind?"

Ilana turned her attention toward him as well, her emerald-green eyes filled with curiosity. "Who was that, sweetheart?"

Advay stopped in front of them, his expression as calm as ever. "Coach. He called to inform me that I've been selected for the India U-19 team."

The words hung in the air for a second, sinking in.

Then—

"WHAT?!"

Aditi nearly choked on her drink, eyes widening in disbelief. She grabbed his arm, shaking it lightly. "Wait, wait—India U-19? Like, THE India U-19? Are you messing with us?"

Ilana's face immediately lit up with warmth and pride, a bright smile forming on her lips. "Oh, Advay! That's incredible!" She stepped forward, placing her hands gently on his face, her eyes brimming with emotion. "I always knew you'd make it this far."

Arjun let out a deep chuckle, shaking his head as he crossed his arms. "Well, that didn't take long. From U-16 straight to India U-19... You really don't waste time, do you?"

Advay simply shrugged. "I have to report in a month."

Aditi blinked before breaking into a wide grin. "You're actually insane, you know that? First, you become a billionaire at thirteen, and now this? Seriously, leave some achievements for the rest of us!"

Ilana let out a soft laugh before pulling him into a warm embrace, wrapping her arms around him. "We are so, so proud of you, my love."

Arjun walked forward, placing a firm hand on his son's shoulder, his gaze steady and filled with approval. "You've taken the first step toward something big, son. But remember—this is just the beginning."

Advay gave a small nod, his emerald-green eyes reflecting the deep determination burning within him. "I know. I'll be ready."

The rhythmic crashing of the waves, the golden sunset stretching across the horizon, and the presence of his family—all of it felt surreal. He had achieved something monumental today, but deep down, he knew this was only the beginning.

His journey was just getting started.

A month later, on February 4, 2015, Advay and Arjun arrived at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The morning was crisp, the soft golden sunlight reflecting off the academy's vast training grounds. This was the place where India's greatest cricketers had trained, a proving ground for those destined for the highest level.

As they stepped through the entrance, the sheer energy of the place was unmistakable. Everywhere, young cricketers in their training kits moved with purpose. Some were heading toward the practice nets, bats resting on their shoulders, while others worked on their fitness, pushing themselves through grueling drills under the watchful eyes of their coaches. The distant sound of leather meeting willow echoed through the air, mixed with the rhythmic thud of fast bowlers pounding the turf.

The walls of the academy were adorned with framed photographs of cricketing legends—from Sunil Gavaskar to Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid to MS Dhoni. Their achievements, their defining moments in Indian cricket, were immortalized here, serving as inspiration for every aspiring player that walked through these halls.

A staff member, dressed in the official NCA uniform, approached them with a polite smile. "Mr. Rai, welcome. Please follow me."

They were led through the corridors toward the administrative office, where the necessary paperwork for Advay's India U-19 selection awaited. The room was quiet, professional—this was where talent met formality, where young dreams were turned into official records.

As the documents were placed before him, Advay took the pen and signed his name with calm precision. His emerald-green eyes reflected nothing but focus, determination, and an unwavering belief in himself.

Arjun stood beside him, arms crossed, a quiet but unmistakable sense of pride in his expression. His son, at just 14 years old, was signing the papers that would mark his entry into the next level of cricket. This was no longer just junior-level dominance—this was the India U-19 team. A step closer to the biggest stage of them all.

Once the final signature was done, the staff member nodded, gathering the documents. "Congratulations, Advay. You are now officially a part of the India U-19 team."

Arjun placed a firm hand on his son's shoulder. "The journey only gets tougher from here, but I know you're ready for it."

Advay met his father's gaze and gave a small nod. "Always."

With the paperwork completed, the reality of it all finally sank in. This was no longer just a dream—it was happening. He was now part of the system, officially in the pipeline toward professional cricket.

But to him, this was just another step. The real challenge was only beginning.

The next morning, February 5, 2015, the sky was a soft shade of blue, the early morning chill lingering in the air as Advay stood at the entrance of his home, bags packed and ready. This was a moment he had been preparing for, but now that it had arrived, there was an undeniable weight to it.

Ilana, Aditi, and Arjun stood beside him, their expressions filled with pride, excitement, and the quiet realization that he would be away for a while. The house, which had always been full of warmth and the comforting presence of family, would feel a little different now—for them and for him.

Ilana, as always, was the one fussing over the little details. She reached out, gently fixing the collar of his jacket, her emerald-green eyes filled with warmth and a tinge of emotion.

"Eat well, rest properly, and don't overwork yourself, alright?" she said softly, her voice carrying that motherly concern that never faded, no matter how much he grew.

Advay gave a small nod, his expression calm as ever. "I know, Mama."

Aditi, standing with her arms crossed, let out a dramatic sigh. "And don't turn into some training-obsessed machine. You're already bad enough as it is."

Advay smirked slightly. "No promises."

Aditi rolled her eyes before suddenly stepping forward and pulling him into a quick, tight hug. "I'm serious, though. Call us. I don't care if you're India U-19 now—you're still my annoying little brother."

Ilana chuckled at their exchange before placing a gentle hand on Advay's cheek. "No matter where you go, this will always be home, sweetheart. Remember that."

Arjun, who had been watching quietly, stepped forward and placed a firm hand on his son's shoulder. His gaze, strong and steady, met Advay's.

"This is another step, but remember—every step matters. Stay focused, stay disciplined. You're here for a reason."

Advay met his father's eyes, the words settling deep within him. "I will."

There was nothing more to say. With one last round of hugs, teasing remarks from Aditi, and Ilana making him promise to take care of himself, he finally stepped into the waiting car that would take him to the NCA dorms.

As the car began moving, he looked back through the window. His family stood by the entrance, watching him leave.

Aditi waved, Ilana smiled softly, and Arjun gave him one final nod of approval.

After arriving at the NCA, Advay finally moved his things into his assigned dorm room. The space was simple but well-equipped—a bed, a study desk, a wardrobe, and a large window overlooking the practice grounds. It wasn't home, but it didn't need to be. This was where he would train, push his limits, and prepare for the next step in his cricketing journey.

He unpacked his essentials, placing his clothes neatly in the wardrobe, his cricket gear in one corner, and his personal belongings on the desk. The room already felt like a place of discipline and purpose.

Once everything was in order, he took a moment to breathe before stepping out. The sun was beginning to dip, casting a golden hue over the sprawling NCA training facility. He could hear the distant sound of bat meeting ball, the rhythmic thud of bowling machines, and the occasional shouts of players communicating in the nets.

Without hesitation, he walked toward the evening training session, his steps steady and composed. This was it—the start of something much bigger.

As he approached the practice area, he could see the other players warming up, the coaching staff observing with sharp eyes.

Now, it was time to meet the coach who would shape his future at the highest level.

a familiar figure—calm, composed, and carrying an aura of wisdom that demanded respect.

Rahul Dravid.

The legendary batter, now the India U-19 coach, turned toward Advay as he approached. There was no unnecessary formality, no grand introduction—just the quiet presence of a man who had seen and built the best in Indian cricket.

Advay greeted him with a slight nod, "Coach."

Dravid offered a small smile, his eyes assessing yet warm. "Advay Rai. Welcome to the NCA."

There was a brief pause before he continued, his voice steady. "I've heard a lot about you. Let's see how you train."

Advay simply nodded. No excitement, no nervousness—just quiet focus.

Rahul Dravid clapped his hands together, immediately drawing the attention of the players on the field. "Alright, everyone, line up." His voice was calm yet carried an authority that no one questioned.

The players, dressed in their India U-19 training kits, jogged over, forming a loose line in front of him. Some stood with arms crossed, others with hands on their hips, sweat still glistening from their practice sessions. The energy among them was light-hearted but competitive—the kind of environment where only the best thrived.

Dravid turned slightly and gestured toward Advay, who stood beside him. "This is Advay Rai. He's just joined the squad."

The moment his name was mentioned, several heads tilted slightly in curiosity.

Ishan Kishan, the captain, stepped forward, a grin playing at the corner of his lips. "Advay Rai, huh? Never heard of you."

Rishabh Pant, standing beside him, smirked. "Yeah, where have you been hiding?"

Advay remained composed, simply responding, "Karnataka U-16 and U-19."

Sarfaraz Khan raised an eyebrow. "So you've never played for India at any level before?"

"No," Advay answered, unfazed.

Avesh Khan, stretching his arms, let out a dramatic sigh. "Man, Dravid sir, you're bringing in rookies now?"

That earned a round of chuckles from the squad. The teasing wasn't malicious—it was the usual banter among a group of competitive players testing the waters with a new teammate.

Washington Sundar nudged Rishabh. "Maybe he's some hidden talent. You never know."

Rishabh scoffed. "Please. If he was that good, we'd have at least heard of him."

Before anyone could say more, Dravid raised a hand, silencing the chatter effortlessly. **"That's enough. He's here for a reason, and you'll see that soon enough."**His tone was firm, but there was an unmistakable glint of amusement in his eyes as he looked at Advay.

The team fell quiet, but a few exchanged glances, their interest clearly piqued. A new player, unknown to them, stepping into their team? They would find out soon enough whether he belonged or not.

Dravid motioned toward the nets. "Alright, back to training. Advay, get warmed up. You're batting today."

Rishabh Pant grinned. "Oh, this is going to be fun."

Advay walked up to the nets, his posture relaxed, yet composed, his every step exuding quiet confidence. There was no nervous energy, no signs of hesitation—just calm assurance, like a man who belonged.

As he took his stance at the crease, Rishabh Pant crouched behind him as the wicketkeeper, smirking slightly. "Alright, let's see what you've got, rookie," he muttered just loud enough for Advay to hear.

At the other end, Avesh Khan, one of India U-19's premier fast bowlers, marked his run-up. Tall, strong, and quick, he was known for his sharp inswingers and aggressive bowling.

Avesh took a deep breath before charging in. The first ball, a full inswinger at a good pace, tailed in viciously toward middle stump.

But Advay didn't even flinch.

With a smooth, effortless swing of his bat, he met the ball perfectly under his eyes, launching it straight over the bowler's head. The sound of the shot echoed through the nets—clean, crisp, and brutal.

The ball soared into the air, sailing way beyond the practice area, disappearing into the distance.

For a second, there was silence.

Then—

"OH, HO!" Rishabh Pant burst out laughing. "Are you kidding me?! First ball and he sends Avesh into orbit?!"

Avesh scowled, rubbing the ball against his thigh as he walked back to his mark. "Alright, alright. Let's see if you can do that again."

He stormed in for the second ball—a fraction fuller, aimed outside off stump.

Advay shifted his weight forward, his movements smooth and controlled. With perfect timing, he leaned into the shot, his bat slicing through the air as he drove the ball through the covers.

The sound of bat meeting ball was pure perfection. The red leather raced along the ground like a bullet, splitting the gap between cover and point.

"Beautiful," Washington Sundar muttered under his breath, watching the elegance of the stroke.

A few of the players, who had initially been casually watching, arms crossed, now straightened slightly, their expressions shifting.

Avesh, lips pressed together, went back again. Third ball. This time, he dug it in short.

Advay read it instantly.

He shifted his weight back, rolled his wrists, and pulled it with authority—not wild, not desperate, but controlled and fierce. The ball rocketed between deep midwicket and square leg, crashing into the netting with a loud thud.

Rishabh let out a low whistle. "Okay... okay. This guy's something else."

Sarfaraz Khan nudged Ishan Kishan. "You sure he hasn't been playing international cricket in disguise?"

Avesh was already back at his mark, his eyes narrowing slightly. No one dominated him in the nets—not like this.

Advay, still as composed as ever, simply adjusted his gloves, his emerald-green eyes steady.

As the evening training session wrapped up, the players slowly made their way back toward the dorms. The floodlights above the practice ground cast long shadows, and the cool evening breeze carried the lingering sounds of cricket balls hitting willow.

Advay walked alongside Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar, who had naturally gravitated toward him after the session.

Rishabh, ever the chatterbox, grinned and nudged Advay. "Dude, I swear you've been hiding somewhere. Where the hell did you learn to bat like that?"

Advay, still calm, adjusted the strap of his kit bag on his shoulder. "Just trained a lot."

Washington chuckled. "'Just trained a lot'? Come on, man. You made Avesh look like a club-level bowler back there. That straight six? Brutal."

Rishabh nodded eagerly. "And that cover drive? Man, I felt bad for the ball. It had no idea what hit it."

Advay just smirked slightly. He wasn't one for bragging.

As they neared the dorm building, Washington casually mentioned, "By the way, we're roommates."

Advay raised an eyebrow slightly. "All three of us?"

Rishabh slung an arm around Advay's shoulder, grinning. "Yep. NCA has three-member rooms—it's their way of making sure we build camaraderie. So, congrats, buddy. You're stuck with us."

Washington laughed. "It's not that bad. Just don't let Rishabh's snoring drive you insane."

Rishabh scoffed. "Lies. Slander. Baseless accusations. I sleep like an angel."

Advay shook his head, amused at their banter. It had only been a few hours, but he already felt like he was blending into the team.

As they entered their dorm room, Rishabh clapped his hands. "Alright, boys, new rule—if Advay keeps batting like that, he's paying for all our snacks!"

Washington grinned. "Agreed."

Advay sighed but smirked. "Fine. But don't go overboard."

The three of them laughed, and just like that, a new friendship was beginning.

Over the next month, Advay seamlessly integrated into the India U-19 squad. At first, he had been an unknown figure—a talented newcomer who had stunned everyone in the nets. But as the days passed, he quickly became a familiar presence, speaking and interacting with everyone.

His calm demeanor and quiet confidence intrigued his teammates. While he wasn't as loud or flashy as Rishabh Pant, or as openly expressive as Sarfaraz Khan, his actions on the field spoke for themselves. Whether it was in the nets, during strategy discussions, or in casual conversations, Advay earned respect not just for his skill but also for his understanding of the game.

Off the field, he was getting along well with everyone. Rishabh and Washington, his roommates, naturally became the closest to him, but he found himself interacting more with the entire squad.

Some days, he'd sit with the bowlers—Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed, and Mayank Dagar—discussing tactics, field placements, and deliveries. Other times, he'd talk cricket with Ishan Kishan, Armaan Jaffer, and Sarfaraz Khan, exchanging thoughts on shot selection and different match situations.

Despite his initial quiet nature, he never shied away from conversation. If someone approached him, he responded. If there was banter in the locker room, he joined in. And if someone challenged him on the field, he let his performance do the talking.

Within weeks, he was no longer 'the new guy.' He was now part of the team.