Umair Jaswal decides to 'step away' from Shoaib Akhtar's biopic

Pakistan's renowned singer and actor Umair Jaswal, who was cast to play Shoaib Akhtar in the former pacer's biopic — Rawalpindi Express — has decided to step away from the project.

Umair, on Wednesday, took to Twitter to reveal that he would no longer be part of the biopic.

"Due to creative and personal reasons, I have decided to step away from the Shoaib Akhtar biopic project RAWALPINDI EXPRESS. I will no longer be associated with any media or news related to this project," he wrote.

"Wishing everyone involved all the best," he added.

Akhtar nicknamed the "Rawalpindi Express", is renowned for his lightning-quick pace and ability to bowl fierce bouncers, making the batters of his time fear while taking the crease against him.

The former right-armer also holds the record for the quickest delivery — 161.3 kph — bowled in the history of cricket.

Earlier, the artist said he was honoured to be part of the biopic.

"I'm honoured to play the living legend, Mr. Shoaib Akhtar on the big screen in Rawalpindi Express. With Allah’s blessings may we succeed in our endeavours. We look forward to bringing to you a first-of-its-kind biopic film worthy of worldwide recognition," the singer announced.

In July, Akhtar announced that a biopic will be produced about his life's journey.

“Beginning of this beautiful journey. Announcing the launch of my story, my life, my Biopic, RAWALPINDI EXPRESS – Running against the odds. You’re in for a ride you’ve never taken before. The first foreign film about a Pakistani Sportsman. Controversially yours, Shoaib Akhtar,” the former pacer had tweeted.

The biopic of Akhtar will be the first foreign film about a Pakistani sports personality and will be released on 16 November 2023.

Akhtar's biopic is directed by Muhammad Faraz Qaiser and Qaiser Nawaz.

Before taking retirement in 2011 following the ODI World Cup, Akhtar represented Pakistan in 224 international matches and claimed 444 wickets.

Comments

Submit