The news of Ranveer Singh being roped in to play the role of cricketer Kapil Dev in a film based on India’s 1983 cricket World Cup has spread like fire. While there have been debates on social media on whether the actor is the right choice, director Kabir Khan has said that Singh was his first choice for the film.
In an official statement, he said, “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.”
Making a film on the 1983 triumph is exciting for Khan as it also offers him a dose of nostalgia. “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,” he added.
The film is co-produced by Phantom Films. Vikramaditya Motwane, from their team, said, “1983 is the greatest Indian underdog sports story ever and we are delighted to be making it with Kabir and Ranveer.”
He, too, feels nobody apart from Singh can do justice to the role. “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 am sure his portrayal is going to be endearing and brilliant and we can’t wait to see it on screen,” he said.