Chapter 179

In the heart of the domestic cricket season, Nitish embarked on a journey that was nothing short of remarkable. With a steely resolve sharpened by his recent adversities, he aimed to prove not just to the world but to himself that his cricketing saga was far from over. Representing Andhra, he took the Vijay Hazare and the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophies by storm, demonstrating an unparalleled prowess that saw his team storming into the finals of both prestigious tournaments.

Despite the collective might and spirit of the Andhra team, they faced a formidable opponent in Karnataka during the finals. The matches were intense, a true test of skill, strategy, and endurance. Nitish, with the wisdom of his years and a rejuvenated vigor, led from the front. However, despite their best efforts and a series of spellbinding performances from Nitish, Andhra fell short in both finals. The disappointment was palpable, yet it did nothing to diminish the incredible journey they had embarked upon or the monumental contributions Nitish had made.

Throughout the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Nitish was a force to be reckoned with, amassing runs at an average of 65 and securing the title of the leading run-scorer. His prowess wasn't limited to batting alone; he also took 21 wickets, showcasing his versatility and cementing his status as an exceptional all-rounder. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he continued to shine brightly, scoring 435 runs at an average of 45 and taking 22 wickets, making him the second-highest run-scorer and a crucial wicket-taker for his team.

Nitish's remarkable performance gave the national selectors a conundrum. His dominance in the domestic circuit was undeniable, yet he had not played internationally since awakening from his coma. The all-rounder slot in the Indian team, a position fraught with uncertainty due to injuries and inconsistencies, seemed tailor-made for someone of Nitish's caliber. The Indian team had struggled to find a reliable all-rounder, with attempts to fill the gap with Vijay Shankar and Shivam Dube not yielding the desired results, contributing to India's underwhelming performances in recent World Cups.

The cricketing community buzzed with anticipation and debate. Nitish's achievements in the domestic arena were impossible to ignore, sparking widespread speculation about his potential inclusion in the national squad for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa and, more importantly, the World Cup 2023 set to be held in India. His story, a testament to resilience and sheer talent, seemed poised for a fairy-tale continuation on the international stage.

However, when the team for the series against South Africa was announced, Nitish's name was conspicuously absent. The disappointment among his supporters was palpable, a shared sentiment that deepened when the squad for the World Cup was revealed, and once again, Nitish was not on the list. The decision left fans and pundits alike bewildered. Nitish's exclusion from the national team, despite his stellar performances and the clear need for a player of his skills, was a topic of intense debate and speculation.

For Nitish, the news was a blow, albeit one he received with a grace born of his trials and a deep understanding of the unpredictable nature of cricket. His journey had taught him that recognition and opportunities were not always a reflection of one's talent or hard work but were often subject to timing, circumstances, and the intricate dynamics of team selection.

In the wake of the announcement, Nitish found solace in the support of his teammates, his family, and Jahnavi, who had stood by him through the highs and lows. The journey to the finals of the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali trophies, his exceptional performance, and the outpouring of support from fans across the nation were not diminished by his exclusion from the national team. They were milestones in his extraordinary comeback, evidence of his indomitable spirit, and a reminder of the impact he had on the game and those who loved it.

As Nitish reflected on his journey, he knew that his story was far from over. Cricket, with its joys and heartbreaks, was an integral part of his life, a field where he had experienced unparalleled highs and devastating lows. The road ahead might be uncertain, but Nitish was determined to continue playing with the same passion, dedication, and love for the game that had defined his career. Whether or not he donned the national colors again, his legacy as a player who fought back against the odds to leave an indelible mark on the domestic circuit was secure.