Ranveer Singh to Play Kapil Dev in Film on 1983 Cricket World Cup

The film will reportedly be directed by Kabir Khan.

Ranveer Singh might play Kapil Dev in a film on India’s 1983 World Cup win. 

(Photo courtesy: Twitter)

A film on India’s historic Cricket World Cup victory in 1983 versus England is set translate on the big screen and actor, Ranveer Singh will be playing Kapil Dev’s part in the film.

Earlier reports suggested that the film would have Arjun Kapoor but it seems Ranveer will be replacing his good friend.

The film, written by National Award-winning director Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, will be directed by Kabir Khan of Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Tubelight fame.

Confirming the news, Kabir said,

As a young schoolboy when I watched India win the 1983 Cricket World Cup I had no idea that from that day onwards cricket in India will change forever.  As a filmmaker, for me, the journey to that win, filled with raw energy and sheer passion of that young Indian team, is probably one of the most exciting stories I have worked on. And it’s great to have Ranveer come on board to play Kapil Dev, as honestly I could see no one else for the role, ever since I started finalising the script.  

Vishnu Vardhan Induri of Vibri Media & the founder of CCL, who’s producing the film with Phantom expressed his thoughts on the film saying, "Our dream of wanting to make a movie on the Incredible journey of the Indian cricket team during the 1983 World Cup only gets bigger with Kabir Khan and Ranveer Singh coming on board. With his energy and passion we feel that Ranveer would perfectly fit the role of Kapil Dev who is one of the greatest sporting legends India has ever produced.”

The film will be shot at real locations and will be going on floors early next year.

Vikramaditya Motwane of Phantom Films shared,“ '83 is the greatest Indian underdog sports story ever and we’re delighted to be making it with Kabir and Ranveer. Taking on the mantle of playing a legend like Kapil Dev isn’t easy but if any actor can do it, it’s Ranveer. I’m sure his portrayal is going to be endearing and brilliant and we can’t wait to see it on screen.”

While Ranveer Singh will play the lead, the film will be backed by a powerful support cast. The casting of the other cricket players is yet to be finalised.