As fans of the fastest pacer in the world were excited about the biopic of their favourite player, the former cricketer has distanced himself from the project ‘Rawalpindi Express’.
Akhtar, known as ‘Rawalpindi Express’ for his exceptional pace and lightning-quick deliveries, announced his biopic last year in July, sparking a frenzy in cricket fans as it was the first international film about a Pakistani sports figure, and was scheduled to be released before the end of this year.
On Saturday, the speedster took to social media to announce that he had parted ways from what he called a ‘dream project’.
The detailed note shared by the official handle said Akhtar revoked all rights to his life’s story in the wake of the failure to resolve disagreements amicably and constant contractual violations.
Very sadly, I would like to inform all of you that after careful consideration months, I have decided to disassociate myself from the film Rawalpindi Express and its makers by terminating the agreement through my management and legal team, his note reads.
Important announcement. pic.twitter.com/P7zTnTK1C0
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) January 21, 2023
He also warned makers against continuing with the project based on his life, cautioning that stern legal action would be taken if the makers continued to make biography films and use his name or life story events in any way.
Actor Umair Jaswal exits ‘Rawalpindi Express.’
The 47-year-old cricketer-turned-sports analyst distanced himself from the project after Lollywood star Umair Jaswal exited from the biopic earlier this month over creative differences.
Jaswal, too, announced the exit in a social media post, citing creative and personal reasons. “I will no longer be associated with any media or news related to this project…Wishing everyone involved all the best,” the Khakhi Banda crooner tweeted.
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.
Wishing everyone involved all the best. pic.twitter.com/JT2ZwEQYPE— Umair Jaswal (@umairjaswal) January 4, 2023
Akhtar, a world-class commentator, was the once first bowler to be recorded bowling at 100 miles per hour, etching his name in history books for bagging the feat twice.
He made his Test match debut in 1997 as an opening fast bowler and played his first ODI months later. The speedster, however carries a colourful past as he remained in several controversies in his career.
He even saw a ban after testing positive for the banned substances; the ban imposed on him was revoked after an appeal. The outspoken player faced a ban from Pakistan Cricket Board, which was ended after a legal tussle.
The former top player bids adieu to sports after the 2011 World Cup and stepped into the commentary game and analysis, now featuring in several sports show besides managing his own YouTube channel.
