While various names have cropped up to play former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth in the film, 83, we have reliably learnt that actor Jiiva has been finalised to play the part.
Even though the names of actors like Allu Arjun and Vijay Deverakonda were speculated upon till recently, they merely turned out to be rumours, since the makers have finalised Jiiva’s name way back in October. In fact, the filmmakers never approached any Telugu actor for the part.
Since the cricketer (Srikkanth) is from Tamil Nadu, the filmmakers were determined to cast only a Tamil actor in the role for authenticity and greater connect.
A source says, “The film’s director Kabir Khan was clear that he wanted to cast a Tamil actor for the role of Krishnamachari Srikkanth. He was looking for an actor who is young and talented, and eventually found that in actor Jiiva. When he approached the actor for the part in October, Jiva came on board instantly.”
An excited Jiiva has already started prepping for the role of a cricketer, a first for him. The actor has been practicing and picking up the ropes of the game under none other than Srikkanth.
“Jiiva has been allocating two hours every day for practice sessions. He has been working under the supervision of former cricketer, Srikkanth himself. These sessions are expected to be over in the February and the actor will start shooting for his part in March”, adds the source.
Ranveer Singh will play cricketer Kapil Dev in this film, which is a biopic based on India’s historic victory at the 1983 World Cup at Lord’s Stadium, England.
Reliance Entertainment, Phantom Films and Vibri Media are jointly bankrolling the film.
