Kabir Khan’s next film “83” is based on India’s 1983 World Cup triumph in England. The lead role of India’s captain Kapil Dev will be portrayed by Ranveer Singh who is slated to soon begin training with the cricket legend.
The sports drama will chronicle India's win under Kapil's captainship, when the Men in Blue defeated West Indies in the final to clinch their first-ever World Cup trophy in 1983.
"I am looking forward to spending time with Kapil Sir. I feel like that time spent would be integral to my process of transforming myself into him," Ranveer said in a statement.
Ranveer will spend three weeks with Kapil to get the mannerisms and attitude of the character right. He will also learn the veteran cricketer's unique bowling style.
Kabir Khas revealed in Jan 2019 that the entire team will start principal shooting of the film this May in England.
Here are cast members of the film that have been revealed so far.
Chirag Patil as His Father
Marathi actor Chirag Patil will be portraying his father Sandeep Patil in the film.
Writing about hearing this news, Sandeep Patil wrote this in his column on The Quint. “From the day the film was announced, my wife Deepa was hoping and wanting Chirag to play my part and she must have really prayed hard! When Ranveer Singh came on board to play Kapil Dev in the film, Chirag and many others were called for an audition and I think Kabir Khan must have heard the past prayers.”
“Today, I feel proud and happy because Chirag did not get selected because he is my son, he has gone through an audition process to get selected for this film. Now it is up to him – Deepa and I can only wish him well.”
Saqib Saleem to Play All-Rounder Mohinder Amarnath
Race 3 actor Saqib Saleem will essay the role of all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath who was the vice captain of the Indian cricket team during the ’83 World Cup and won the Man of the Match awards in the semi-finals and final.
Pankaj Tripathi as Man Singh
Pankaj Tripathi will play the role of Team India’s manager on the tour, Man Singh. The actor said he was sold when he read the script of the film.
"It was an emotional ride for me while going through the script. At some of the places I was in tears. I am really inspired with the whole journey of Kapil Dev. From when I heard the script, I was certain that I wanted to be a part of this film," the actor said in a statement.
Ammy Virk as Balvinder Singh Sandhu
Punjabi singer-actor Ammy Virk is also cast in the film and will be making his Bollywood debut with the film.
Ammy will be essaying the role of fast bowler Balvinder Singh Sandhu.
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(This story will be updated when the producers make further casting announcements)
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