A few days later, the tension was palpable as India faced Pakistan in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. Yashasvi was replaced by Abhishek as an opener, making Yashasvi a reserve now. The coin toss took place, and the excitement in the stadium was electric.

Ishika, Anushka, Ritika, Natasa, and Sanjana were seated together, eagerly awaiting the start of the match. Ishika was fidgeting with her phone when she saw Kiara enter the stands, her gaze immediately zeroing in on Abhishek. Ishika rolled her eyes and tried to avoid looking at her, but it was hard not to notice Kiara's enthusiastic cheers for Abhishek.

"Come on, Abhishek! You got this!" Kiara yelled, her voice ringing loud and clear.

Ishika shifted uncomfortably in her seat, feeling a pang of jealousy. Anushka, noticing the change in her demeanor, leaned over and whispered, "Are you okay, Ishika? You seem a bit tense."

Ishika forced a smile and nodded. "Yeah, just a bit anxious about the match," she lied, glancing briefly at Kiara who was still cheering energetically for Abhishek.

Ritika, catching on, nudged Ishika gently. "Is it the match or something else? You can tell us, you know."

Ishika sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and uncertainty. "It's... complicated," she muttered, trying to focus on the field where Abhishek was getting ready to bat.

As the match progressed, Abhishek played a solid game, scoring runs with confidence and precision. Ishika found herself clapping and cheering, albeit more subdued compared to Kiara's exuberance.

"You're doing great, Abhishek!" Kiara's voice echoed again, causing Ishika to grit her teeth. She couldn't help but feel uncomfortable with Kiara's obvious affection for Abhishek.

Anushka gave Ishika a reassuring smile. "Don't let it bother you. Just enjoy the game. Abhishek is doing well, and that's what matters."

Ishika nodded, trying to take Anushka's advice to heart. "You're right. I just need to focus on the match," she said, taking a deep breath and turning her attention back to the field.

Despite the mixed emotions swirling inside her, Ishika clapped and cheered for Abhishek, her heart swelling with pride as he continued to perform exceptionally well against Pakistan.

Kiara was dressed in something quite revealing, her intentions clear as she tried to impress Abhishek. Her outfit drew attention, not just from Ishika but from others around them as well.

Ishika rolled her eyes and muttered to Anushka, "Is she serious? Does she think this is a fashion show?"

Anushka glanced over at Kiara and then back at Ishika, chuckling softly. "Well, she's definitely making an impression. But don't let it get to you. Abhishek is out there to play cricket, not to get distracted."

Ishika sighed, her eyes following Abhishek on the field. "I know, but it's just... frustrating. She's so obvious."

Ritika, overhearing the conversation, leaned in and whispered, "Jealous much, Ishika? Maybe you should tell Abhishek how you feel."

Ishika blushed slightly, her eyes widening. "I'm not jealous. I just think it's inappropriate for a match like this."

Ritika raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say."

Kiara, meanwhile, continued to cheer loudly for Abhishek. "You're amazing, Abhishek! Keep going!"

Ishika couldn't help but roll her eyes again, muttering under her breath, "Could she be any more obvious?"

Abhishek, on the field, caught a glimpse of the stands and saw Kiara cheering for him. He felt a bit uncomfortable but quickly shook it off, focusing back on the game.

In the middle of all the tension, Anushka placed a reassuring hand on Ishika's shoulder. "Hey, just focus on supporting Abhishek. He needs all the positive energy he can get right now."

Ishika nodded, trying to push her feelings aside. "You're right. I just need to focus on the game and support him. That's what matters."

As the match continued, Abhishek played a stellar innings, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Despite the distractions, he remained composed and focused, proving his mettle on the field.

Ishika watched him with pride, her cheers growing louder with each run he scored. Despite Kiara's obvious attempts to catch his eye, Ishika knew where her heart lay.

As Rohit Sharma got out, Ritika's face fell, and she sighed heavily. "Oh, come on, Rohit. You could've done better than that," she muttered, clearly disappointed.

Virat Kohli entered the field to loud cheers and applause from the crowd. Ishika and Anushka cheered excitedly, their voices blending with the roaring stadium.

Anushka shouted, "Go, Virat! Show them what you've got!"

Ishika joined in, "Come on, Virat! We're rooting for you!"

Meanwhile, Kiara was undeterred, her focus solely on Abhishek. "Keep it up, Abhishek! You're doing great!" she yelled, her voice cutting through the crowd's noise.

Ishika glanced at Kiara, irritation evident in her eyes. "Does she have to be so obvious?" she muttered under her breath.

Anushka nudged Ishika lightly. "Ignore her. Virat needs our support now."

The game continued, with Virat quickly getting into his rhythm, his bat striking the ball with precision. The crowd roared with every run he made, and Ishika couldn't help but feel proud.

But Kiara's continuous cheers for Abhishek made her stomach churn. "Why is she so fixated on him?" she whispered to Anushka.

Anushka shrugged. "Maybe she's trying too hard. Just focus on the game, Ishika."

As Virat scored a boundary, the crowd went wild. Anushka and Ishika jumped up, clapping and cheering. "Yes, Virat! That's the way!" Anushka shouted.

Ishika added, "Keep going, Virat! You've got this!"

Kiara, however, was undeterred by Virat's success. Her eyes were glued to Abhishek, and her cheers were relentless. "You're the best, Abhishek! Keep going!"

Virat glanced towards the stands briefly, his eyes catching Ishika's and Anushka's supportive smiles. It gave him an extra boost of confidence as he continued to play.

Despite Kiara's attempts, Abhishek remained focused on the game, aware but not distracted by her overt admiration. His determination was evident as he played his part, contributing significantly to the team's effort.

As the match progressed, Ishika's initial irritation turned into a firm resolve. She knew where her support lay and who truly mattered to her in the grand scheme of things.

As Abhishek got out, the stadium groaned in disappointment. Kiara's face fell, her shoulders slumping visibly.

"Oh no, Abhishek!" she exclaimed, her disappointment palpable. "You were doing so well."

Ishika, though feeling a pang of disappointment herself, kept her expression neutral. She didn't want Kiara to sense her feelings. "He did his best," she said nonchalantly to Anushka, who nodded in agreement.

Anushka patted Ishika on the back. "He played well. Now it's up to Virat to take us home."

Ishika glanced at Kiara, who was still visibly upset. "It's a team game," she said, more to herself than anyone else. "Abhishek did his part, and now it's time for the others to step up."

Kiara, still looking at the field, muttered, "I just really thought he'd go all the way today."

Ishika forced a smile. "There's always next time," she said, trying to keep her voice light. "And he's got plenty more opportunities ahead of him."

As Virat continued to play, the crowd's energy surged, and Ishika focused on cheering for her brother. "Come on, Virat! Let's finish strong!" she yelled, her voice full of encouragement.

Anushka joined in, "Yes, Virat! We believe in you!"

Despite her initial disappointment, Ishika's focus shifted entirely to Virat's performance. She knew that supporting her brother was the most important thing at that moment, and she didn't want anything, or anyone, to take that away.

After a solid innings from Abhishek, India set a challenging target for Pakistan. As the teams switched sides, the atmosphere in the stadium was electric with anticipation.

Anushka turned to Ishika, smiling. "Abhishek did a great job, didn't he? You must be proud."

Ishika nodded, her eyes still on the field. "Yeah, he was fantastic. I hope our bowlers can defend this target now."

Kiara, trying to join the conversation, added, "Abhishek has been in amazing form lately. It's so exciting to watch him play."

Ishika forced another smile, trying to keep her feelings in check. "Yes, he's been great."

As Pakistan's openers walked onto the field, the tension mounted. Rohit gathered the team in a huddle, giving them a pep talk before they took their positions. Ishika noticed Abhishek standing tall and focused, ready to support his teammates from the field.

Virat jogged past the stands, briefly glancing up at the cheering section where Anushka, Ishika, and the rest of the families sat. Ishika waved energetically, and Virat gave a quick nod of acknowledgment.

"Come on, India!" Anushka shouted, her voice blending with the crowd's roar. "Let's get those wickets!"

Kiara leaned over to Ishika. "Do you think Abhishek will bowl today?"

Ishika shrugged. "Maybe, if needed. But our main bowlers should handle it."

As the game progressed, every ball was met with cheers or groans from the fans. The Indian bowlers started strong, taking early wickets and putting Pakistan under pressure.

Abhishek, fielding near the boundary, was constantly on his toes, backing up throws and encouraging his teammates. Ishika watched him closely, admiring his dedication and focus.

During a break in play, Abhishek ran over to the stands for a quick water break. He glanced up and saw Ishika and Anushka cheering for the team. He gave a small wave, which Ishika returned with a bright smile.

"You're doing great, Abhishek!" Ishika called out. "Keep it up!"

As the match wore on, the tension escalated. Every run and wicket brought the crowd to their feet. Ishika felt her heart pounding, fully engrossed in the game and the performance of her brother and the team.

Kiara, despite her initial focus on Abhishek, was now fully invested in the match. "This is so intense," she said, gripping the edge of her seat. "I can't take my eyes off the game!"

Ishika nodded, her eyes never leaving the field. "This is what cricket is all about. The highs, the lows, every moment counts."

As the final overs approached, India tightened their grip on the match. With each wicket that fell, the excitement in the stands grew.

When the last wicket fell, sealing India's victory, the stadium erupted in cheers. Ishika, Anushka, and the others jumped to their feet, celebrating wildly.

"Yes! We did it!" Ishika shouted, her voice hoarse from cheering.

Anushka hugged her tightly. "What a game! They were amazing!"

Kiara, still excited, turned to Ishika. "That was incredible! Abhishek played such a big part in this win."

Ishika nodded, feeling a mix of pride and relief. "He did. They all did. This was a true team effort."

As the players began to walk off the field, Abhishek looked up at the stands again. This time, Ishika gave him a double thumbs-up, her smile beaming with pride. Abhishek grinned back, knowing he had made his friend proud.

Ishika rushed down from the stands, her heart still pounding with excitement from the thrilling match. She spotted Virat amidst the jubilant crowd of players, families, and fans, and made her way toward him.

"Virat!" she called out, her voice filled with pride and excitement.

Virat turned, a wide grin spreading across his face as he saw his sister approaching. "Ishika!" he exclaimed, opening his arms to embrace her.

Ishika wrapped her arms around her brother tightly, a surge of emotion coursing through her. "You were amazing out there, Virat! That century was legendary!"

Virat chuckled, returning her hug warmly. "Thanks, Ishika. It was a team effort, and we all played our part."

As they pulled away from the hug, Ishika beamed up at her brother. "I'm so proud of you, bhai. You've always been an inspiration to me."

Virat's smile softened, a look of affection in his eyes as he gazed at his sister. "And you've always been my biggest supporter. I couldn't ask for a better sister."

Ishika felt a swell of gratitude and love for her brother. "I'll always be cheering you on, bhai. No matter what."

Virat nodded, his expression filled with determination. "And I'll always have your back, Ishika. That's what family is for."

Feeling a sense of unity and strength, Ishika and Virat stood side by side, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that they had each other's unwavering support and love.

Ishika's heart sank as she spotted Abhishek and Kiara together, their closeness evident even from a distance. She couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy as she watched them embrace, a frown forming on her face.

She approached them slowly, trying to mask her disappointment with a forced smile. "Hey, Abhishek," she greeted, her voice tinged with a hint of coolness.

Abhishek turned to her, a warm smile lighting up his face. "Hey, Ishika! Did you enjoy the match?"

Ishika nodded, her smile faltering slightly as she glanced at Kiara. "Yeah, it was great. Congratulations on your performance."

Abhishek's smile widened, oblivious to Ishika's inner turmoil. "Thanks, Ishika. It means a lot coming from you."

Kiara's presence loomed between them, and Ishika couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in her chest. She forced herself to maintain composure, though her heart ached with longing for Abhishek's attention.

Shubman's attempts to capture Kiara's attention seemed futile in the presence of Abhay. Despite his efforts, it was clear that her focus was solely on Abhishek. Frustration flickered in Shubman's eyes as he glanced over at them, a mixture of longing and resignation evident in his voice as he muttered to himself, "Seems like I don't stand a chance."

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As Ishika settled into the cozy ambiance of Virat and Anushka's hotel room, the weight of her emotions felt palpable. Anushka's gentle inquiry broke the silence, her voice soft with concern as she noticed Ishika's unease. "Is everything alright, Ishika? You seem a bit off," Anushka remarked, her gaze filled with a mixture of curiosity and compassion.

Ishika hesitated for a moment, her mind swirling with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Finally, she found the courage to speak, her voice tinged with vulnerability as she opened up to Anushka. "It's about Abhishek," she confessed, her words trailing off uncertainly as she grappled with how to articulate her feelings.

Anushka's expression softened with understanding, her eyes conveying a sense of empathy as she listened attentively to Ishika's words. "Go on, Ishika. You can tell me anything," she encouraged, offering a reassuring smile that eased Ishika's nerves.

Taking a deep breath, Ishika began to unravel the complexities of her emotions, her words tumbling out in a rush as she poured her heart out to Anushka. "I think... I think I might have feelings for Abhishek," she admitted, her voice tinged with a mixture of apprehension and longing.

Anushka's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but she maintained a supportive presence, nodding encouragingly as Ishika continued to share her innermost thoughts. "I know it sounds crazy, especially with everything that's been happening lately," Ishika confessed, her voice tinged with self-doubt as she grappled with the intensity of her emotions.

Anushka reached out to gently grasp Ishika's hand, offering a reassuring squeeze that conveyed her unwavering support. "It's not crazy at all, Ishika. Sometimes, matters of the heart can be quite unexpected," she reassured, her words imbued with a sense of warmth and understanding.

Ishika nodded, a sense of relief washing over her as she realized that she wasn't alone in her feelings. "Thank you, Anushka. I needed to get that off my chest," she admitted, her voice laced with gratitude as she met Anushka's gaze with a sense of newfound clarity and determination.

I lost my header for some reason