After the triumph over Chennai, Hyderabad's campaign continued to gather momentum. The squad traveled to multiple cities, competing in a string of high-stakes matches. Mohit, buoyed by his growing confidence, started to feel not just a part of the team, but a vital force within it.But no journey is without setbacks. The next match, away against a strong Delhi side, brought Hyderabad back to earth. Batting first, the Hyderabad lineup collapsed against relentless fast bowling. Mohit, trying to anchor the innings, misread a deceptive yorker and was bowled for just 11 runs.The return bus felt heavy with disappointment. Mohit replayed the ball over and over, frustration bubbling beneath his calm exterior. Coach's debrief, however, was gentle yet firm. "Growth isn't about easy wins. It's the losses that teach you how hard you're willing to fight next time."Back in Hyderabad, Mohit didn't hide from the setback. He threw himself into practice, working on defense and asking bowlers to challenge him with their best deliveries. Siddharth watched and joined in, pushing each other to higher standards. Imran sent a message: "Every lion gets knocked down. The real ones get back up stronger."Within a week, Mohit was back among friends and teammates, pulling off extra drills and motivating the younger players. He shared openly about his mistakes, building trust and encouraging others to learn and adapt too.The following match, Hyderabad bounced back with a gritty win. Mohit's efforts—though not the highest score—were crucial in building a steady partnership and fielding under pressure.That night, sitting outside his home, Mohit felt grateful. The path was never straight, but every fall carried a lesson, and every lesson carried him forward, closer to his ultimate dream: to lead, to inspire, and to honor the game and city that taught him to never surrender
With Hyderabad's tournament campaign at a critical stage, the coaches made a surprising announcement: Mohit would serve as vice-captain for the upcoming match. The news spread quickly among friends and family, sparking messages of pride and encouragement from every corner of his world�.Mohit took the added responsibility seriously. He spent extra time planning field settings, discussing strategy with the captain, and addressing teammates' concerns. The pressure was real; the team faced Kolkata next, a squad renowned for their aggressive batsmen and ruthless finishers.In team meetings, Mohit's calm advice earned respect. He urged players to support one another and reminded everyone of why they'd come so far: not simply for themselves, but for Hyderabad's hopes. Siddharth, ever the fierce competitor, promised to follow Mohit's fielding signals without question.On game day, tension electrified the dressing room. Hyderabad lost the toss and was sent to field first. Mohit moved with purpose, rallying fielders, making rapid adjustments as Kolkata's openers began with an aggressive start. His encouragement paid off—a sharp catch at midwicket broke the partnership and set a new tone.During the chase, Hyderabad faced a mounting required rate. Mohit was sent in at number four. He batted with intent: snatching singles, punishing loose balls, and rebuilding the innings after quick wickets fell. The partnership between Mohit and Siddharth proved pivotal; their quiet communication under pressure calmed the nerves of teammates watching from the sidelines.With just six balls remaining and ten runs to win, Mohit faced the star Kolkata bowler. He trusted his training, picked the right length, and dispatched a crucial boundary over cover. The crowd erupted as Hyderabad sealed a tense and memorable chase.That night, as celebrations died down, Mohit gathered the team. "We rise together, we fall together, but always as one," he said, voice confidently echoing in the stadium's hush.The evening ended with laughter, high-fives, and promises of bigger victories still to come—a signal that Mohit was growing, not only as a player, but as a true leader with Hyderabad's future in his hands
Mohit scored a match-defining 56 runs off 44 balls, hitting 5 boundaries and 2 sixes, anchoring the run chase for Hyderabad.