Singer-composer Harrdy Sandhu has been roped in to play the character of India’s former fast bowler Madan Lal in Kabir Khan’s ’83. This will be his acting debut. The film is based on Indian cricket team’s victory in the 1983 cricket World Cup. Ranveer Singh will essay the role of team captain and all-rounder, Kapil Dev.
Sandhu has been an under-19 cricketer and has also played Ranji Trophy. Coincidently, he was previously coached by Madan Lal himself. “He was my coach then. I have spoken to him [following my casting], and will meet him in a day or two,” Sandhu said in an official statement.
“To get into the skin of his character, Harrdy Sandhu would play Madan Lal’s videos on a large screen and ape his mannerism,” said an official statement from the makers.
Sandhu was recommended by Ammy Virk, who is playing the role of Balwinder Singh Sandhu in the film. “Ammy, along with another coach assisting the team, recommended me for the part. I have played cricket in the Under-19 team and the Ranji Trophy. Kabir sir gave me seven days to prepare for the role before they could take the final call,” he added.
Madan Lal made an important contribution, both with the ball and bat in the 1983 World Cup Final against the West Indies. He took three crucial wickets, including the legend Vivian Richards’, and scored an important 17 runs, which also included one six, while batting down the order.