Queen

Ch 2 : Encounter on the Pitch

In the dressing room of the Maharashtra troop, Smriti Mandhana gathered her teammates for a pep talk, emphasizing the importance of focus and teamwork. "Alright, everyone," Smriti began, her voice filled with determination. "This is our chance to show them what we're made of. Let's play our hearts out and leave it all on the field."

Jemi, Smriti's best friend and teammate, stood by her side, offering words of encouragement. "You've got this, sister. We all believe in you," she said with a reassuring smile on her face.

As they warmed up on the field, Smriti and Jemi shared a few quiet moments together, discussing their strategy for the match. "What do you think about our opponents, Jems?" Smriti asked, her brow furrowed in concentration.

Jemi is the person Smriti has known for the longest of times. Infact they are more like sisters than friends by now. When the rest of the world could not figure out how to unveil the shy-ness off of Smriti, Jami somehow cracked the code.
Glancing at the players from Himachal, assessing their strengths and weaknesses Jemi says, "Their bowling attack looks strong, but their batting lineup seems a bit shaky under pressure," she observed.

Smriti nodded in agreement. "Agreed. If we can apply early pressure and keep them on the back foot, we'll be in a good position to take control of the game."

With their game plan in place, Smriti and Jemi exchanged nods of determination, ready to give their all on the field. As the match began, they knew that victory would require not only skill and strategy but also the unwavering support of each other and their teammates.
_______________________________________

As Harleen Deol entered the lively dressing room of the Himachal Women's Cricket Team, she felt a mix of nerves and excitement. The team captain, Reema, introduced her as the prodigy from Punjab who would now be playing for Himachal.

The room erupted into applause as Harleen's teammates welcomed her with open arms, celebrating her arrival with cheers and claps. Despite the warm reception, Harleen couldn't shake the nervous flutter in her stomach. It was her first time playing in such a big match, and the pressure was palpable.

Turning to her friend Renuka, who played for the Women's National Indian Cricket Team, Harleen sought guidance. Renuka sensed her friend's apprehension and offered some reassuring words.

"Don't worry, Harleen," Renuka said, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I know it's your first big match, but you've got this. Just focus on your game and trust your instincts."

Renuka then proceeded to give Harleen some pointers about how to approach the match and calm her nerves. "And remember," she added, "today we're up against Smriti Mandhana, the captain of the Maharashtra team and the vice-captain of the Indian National Team. She's a formidable opponent, so stay sharp."

Harleen's eyes widened with intrigue at the mention of Smriti Mandhana. "I've heard about her," she admitted eagerly. "I'm really excited to bowl against her. Let's see how the match unfolds."
_______________________________________

As the match commenced, the spotlight fell on the opening duo of Maharashtra, with Smriti Mandhana striding confidently onto the pitch alongside Jemimah Rodrigues. Harleen's eyes fixated on Smriti as she made her way out of the pavilion, an aura of confidence surrounding her that seemed to set her apart from the rest.

Renuka, taking the new ball for Himachal, delivered the first ball to Jemi, who effortlessly dispatched it to the boundary, igniting cheers from the Maharashtra squad. On the other side of the pitch, Harleen felt the pressure mounting as she watched her opponents assert their dominance.

As the overs progressed Maharashtra's grip over the match hardened. Now it was finally Harleen's turn to bowl, and her opponent was none other than Smriti Mandhana herself. With a determined focus, Harleen sent down her delivery, only to watch in awe as Smriti effortlessly smashed it for a beautiful six.

Harleen couldn't help but notice the smile on Smriti's face as she executed her shot-a radiant expression that seemed to epitomize her love for the game. Despite her initial nerves, Harleen found herself captivated by Smriti's sheer class and skill on the field.

As the match unfolded, Smriti continued to showcase her talent, eventually finishing with an impressive score of 81 not out, propelling Maharashtra to a formidable total of 189. In the second innings, despite Harleen's valiant debut fifty, Himachal fell short, unable to withstand the onslaught of Maharashtra's bowling attack.

In the end, Maharashtra emerged victorious, with Smriti rightfully claiming the Player of the Match award. But for Harleen, it was more than just a game-it was the beginning of a newfound respect and admiration for the talented left-hander who had left an indelible mark on her mind and heart.