With a tone of uncommon seriousness, Coach Sani folded her arms. For a brief moment, the playful gleam in her eyes faded.
"All right, I've covered everything you needed to know up to this point," she said. "Now is the time to start your actual journey. And that starts with footwork, one of cricket's most crucial fundamentals.
With a slight increase in heart rate, Arjun stood up straight.
But first, you'll need a coach," Sania continued.
"A coach?" Arjun blinked. "Wait — like a real coach?"
Sania grinned and tucked a strand of moon-red hair behind her ear, saying, "Not a real-world one." "Coaches of the system. The system's AI engine enhances and optimizes holographic projections of legendary players to help you train. These are elite simulations with genuine skill and a mentor's mindset, not ghosts or memories.
She abruptly moved aside. On the virtual training ground, three bright silhouettes glistened into view. Each had its own aura.
Sania declared, "These are your three footwork options."
First Choice: Brian Lara
A tall, elegant figure with a bat balanced lightly in his fingers stepped forward. With the grace of a dancer, the Lara projection transitioned fluidly between leg-side flicks and off-drives.
Sania clarified that "Lara's footwork was all about flair and power." Adaptability, bold movement, and wry elegance. He is your man if you want to score in every direction and dominate spinners.
Second Choice: Sir Donald Bradman
Sir Don himself then emerged in silhouette, with his keen eyes, quick shuffle, and impeccable balance.
Sania remarked, "Bradman's footwork was all about efficiency and precision." He had superhuman reflexes. Bowlers feared him not only because of his skill but also because of his quick positioning, weight transfer, and surgical control.
Third Choice: Sachin Tendulkar
At last, the figure Arjun had spent his entire life worshiping. Calm, steady, and focused, the Sachin hologram moved forward.
Sania remarked respectfully, "Tendulkar's footwork was methodical." Not as flashy as Bradman or as flamboyant as Lara. But calm, technical, and clean. Ideal for accumulating innings under pressure. He used his technique as his weapon while playing on a variety of pitches and against all bowling types.
Sania looked over at Arjun. Which route will you choose, then? Keep in mind that you only have to take one path at first. Your foundation will collapse if you attempt to follow all three at once.
Arjun nervously scratched his head. "Can't I combine all three of them? They are all legends. As in, choose the best of each?
Sania's gaze withered at him. Eat only what you can digest, little boy. It is impossible to master three different forms of movement and balance at once without looking foolish. You will be able to access "Multi-Coach Fusion Mode" once your foundation is strong, but for now, choose one.
Arjun took another look at each hologram. Bradman shuffled quickly. Lara's wrists dancing. And Sachin—steady, strong, indestructible.
"I pick," he said slowly, "Sachin Tendulkar." I look up to him. Though all three are excellent, he is the one I have admired since I was a young child. I would like to learn footwork from the man known as the God of Cricket.
Sania grinned. "Predictable. Not incorrect, though.
There was hope in his eyes. "Perhaps I'll surpass him in runs someday if I take a cue from him!"
She laughed. "Oh, my innocent, sweet boy. Learning does not equate to becoming. Footwork is only the first step. You haven't even stepped onto the pitch yet, and there's a long road ahead.
Arjun rubbed the back of his head and laughed uncomfortably.
"So, now that footwork is decided, can I pick my bowling coach too?" he asked excitedly.
Sania held out her palms in a soothing gesture and said, "Slow down, turbo." For the next ten days, you will only practice footwork. You have to be singularly focused until you grasp its rhythm, technique, and feel. I'll start the bowling program as soon as you understand the basics.
Arjun gently countered, "But I think I can learn both simultaneously."
She shot back, "And I think you're still the same over-excited kid who wants dessert before dinner." "Listen, obsession is necessary for true mastery. Obsession also requires seclusion. Give one skill your best effort, and then we'll discuss all-rounder routines.
Arjun bowed his head and smiled sheepishly. "All right, Coach Sania. I will pay attention.
"Well done, boy. Let's install Tendulkar Sir now. We start at sunrise.