chapter 12 - training camp .

"Four months flew by quickly. During this time, Rohan had already perfected his bowling action and emerged as the best bowler among the under-14 players. Nowadays, he practiced bowling with older boys who had already played significant matches for the club. When Rohan bowled against these senior players, he thought he was already the best bowler on the field, but reality proved otherwise. After the batsmen got used to his pace and swing within a week of playing against him, they started hitting him for long shots. This served as a 'wake-up call' for Rohan, teaching him that merely having pace wasn't enough; to be the best, he needed to learn how to control his bowling length and actions.

Over the past few months, Rohan had started focusing on learning to control his bowling length. He had discussed this with his bowling coach, Ram, who had suggested various practice drills to improve this aspect of his game. For instance, placing cones on the pitch and trying to hit them while bowling or putting a coin near the stumps to hit it with the ball. This way, he was honing his ability to control his bowling length and use it effectively during crucial moments.

In the previous month, Rohan also delved into improving his batting. It was a distinct skill compared to street cricket. In street games, players didn't pay much attention to their body alignment and simply aimed for sixes. However, in practice nets, focus was on maintaining proper body alignment and choosing the right deliveries to hit.

As you know, Rohan didn't possess exceptional batting talent, with a rating of 45. But when compared to his adult counterparts, it was noteworthy. His mindset of an adult allowed him to focus better on watching the ball and executing shots. With the ball coming in at an average speed of 70 kmph, he didn't struggle much in hitting it for sixes in the U14 team. If you wanted a player with hitting power who could also bowl, Rohan was an excellent choice. Over the past months, Rohan had already built strong friendships during practice sessions.

In the preceding three months, Rohan participated in local tournaments to gain experience in both bowling and batting. Having been selected for the U12 training camp, his coach decided to give him a two-day break to be in perfect shape. On the day of the training camp, Rohan and five other boys selected alongside him arrived at SPG to travel together. During the train journey, their coach began to explain the hidden rules of the training camp, such as not being disrespectful to others and getting only five chances to perform in the nets.

Upon reaching the venue, Rohan and the others were astonished to see around a hundred children present. Coach Vishal saw their surprised expressions and addressed them, explaining that while many had gathered, only 25 spots were available. He emphasized that even if someone didn't get selected, they shouldn't be disheartened, as opportunities would come in the future. He encouraged them to give their best.

During a break, Rohan noticed some familiar faces, including Masood and his teammates from a practice match in early October. Masood was participating as a batsman. As Rohan relaxed, the head coach and management discussed something. Coach Vishal asked his management about potential players, and they mentioned that they were lacking good pace bowlers.

On the day of selection, Rohan was assigned the number 78, indicating there were many before him. When he eventually took the field, he observed Coach Vishal talking to someone and realized that this was his moment to shine or fail. Standing at the bowling pitch, the umpire asked him what delivery he intended to bowl. Rohan said he would bowl a pace ball from around the wicket. After receiving the signal, he focused solely on the next ball.

As he ran up to the crease with 14 determined steps, he imagined a batsman in front of him. Visualizing the scenario, he started his run-up, building speed. Reaching the crease, he threw the ball with all his power. The Yorker delivery struck the wickets, and the middle stump went flying, landing near the net where Coach Vishal stood. Unfazed, the coach asked his assistant about the young bowler.

The assistant replied, "Coach, his name is Rohan Bade."

- End -

Note: I understand that this chapter included a lot of filler content, but I chose to use time skips to move the story forward and avoid redundancy. Also, I've focused more on Rohan becoming an all-rounder, as you mentioned in your note. Feel free to provide feedback, and thank you for your support and encouragement."