The Emblem Ceremony

They called it a "debrief session."No one expected a ceremony.

The players from Evaluation Group Z were told to report to the East Wing assembly hall at 8:30 AM. No specific dress code, no media alert, no press. Just a clipboard announcement: "Final reflection. Mandatory presence."

Raj arrived early. Sat in the corner seat. Quiet as ever.The others walked in louder.

Player 06 had a fresh band around his wrist with a stitched flame symbol.

Player 09 joked about snacks.Someone asked if this was just feedback and logistics.

No one suspected what was really coming.

Until the lights dimmed and a narrow spotlight hit the center stage.

A single table stood there.

On it there are twelve emblem boxes.

Velvet.

Black.

With the National Cricket Board seal etched in silver.

A man in a plain coat walked out and cleared his throat.