Virat saw Rohit sitting on a bench, crouching, his forehead resting on his arm. His eyes were closed, but Virat could see he looked pretty closed to tears.

"What's wrong with you, Ro?" demanded Virat loudly. "It was just one inning!"

Rohit jumped violently and opened his eyes.

"I can't believe I played a shot like that," he mumbled.

"Neither can I, believe me," said Kohli emphatically. "But you always play shots like this, so I don't see what's different this time."

"You should know," said Rohit darkly.

Virat could feel his cheeks burning, but it was silly, of course. Rohit didn't know of his and Jinks' role in his selection.

Rohit felt worse as he saw his best friend's guilty and confused expression.

"Please leave me alone for a little while," said Rohit, sincerely not meaning to sound rude at all.

But still Virat looked hurt. He nodded and went out, leaving Rohit feeling the worst he had all day, because almost nothing made Rohit as upset as seeing Virat hurt.

-------------------

He's not listening, complained Virat to Jinks, back in the dugout. He didn't let me say anything properly.

I knew it, said Jinks matter-of-factly.

So do something! said Virat.

Let's go together, said Jinks. I'll speak if necessary.