‘Some last words of advice. Those of you who get selected today are going to be up against international players—and to compete with them, peak fitness and total dedication are essential. So, either take this seriously and give it everything you have or quit right now. We cannot afford to drop this ball of opportunity.’

Just as she said that, Inaya who had been paying more attention to Nabeel’s words than to the ball, fumbled and dropped the ball that Nabeel had thrown her way. Inaya’s face flushed with embarrassment as she bent to pick it up. She felt like such a goof. Of all the days in the world, why did she have to drop the ball today, just when Nabeel Said had told them that it was the one thing they should not be doing?

Meanwhile, Nabeel was waiting for Inaya to throw the ball back to her. As was everyone else. Inaya flushed an even deeper shade of pink, sensing all eyes on her.

‘And if you do happen to drop the ball,’ continued Nabeel, with the hint of a smile, ‘just pick it up and throw it again. Never stop believing—that’s the most important thing.’

As Inaya tossed the ball back to Nabeel, she stole a glance at the other girls. Some of them seemed to be having second thoughts about this venture.

‘Also, I forgot to mention,’ said Nabeel, ‘There will be a cash prize of one lakh rupees for the winning team, as the tournament is being co-sponsored by Haris Telecom. In fact, all the matches will be relayed on their cable television networks.’

The girls could barely believe their ears. This sort of support for tape-ball or for that matter, any sport for girls, was unheard of.

‘So, if we get selected, will people in Pakistan be able to watch us on television?’ asked Fariha.

‘Yes, absolutely,’ replied Nabeel.

‘I can’t take part, in that case. My family would disown me,’ Fariha said, crestfallen.

Nabeel looked around at the group. ‘Do you know what my biggest regret is?’ The girls were all ears, hanging on to her every word. ‘That I didn’t even try—because I let fear get in the way.’

Nabeel looked pointedly at Fariha, who still looked unconvinced. ‘There will always be obstacles. They can either stop us. Or challenge us to try harder,’ said Nabeel. ‘The choice is ours.’

Nabeel smiled at the group. ‘I know that you all have it in you to succeed. Now go on, show the world what you’re made of.’

Elated, the girls sprinted off to get kitted up for their game. Whether or not they were selected, they had gained something invaluable today.

Hope. And a champion to spur them on.

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New Delhi, India

Like most days, Jai got off the bus, trudged home, unlocked the front door, dropped his satchel, kicked off his shoes and was about to head to his room when he heard voices in the living room. He walked in to find that his parents were already home, which was very odd, given what workaholics they were.