Irfan Pathan set to make his acting debut with a Tamil film

The cricketer is excited about the new innings.

Irfan Pathan with Director Ajay Gananamuthu | Twitter

Veteran Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan is all set to make a mark in the film industry after making a splash in the cricket world, as the all-rounder will be making his acting debut on the silver screen with a South Indian movie soon. He confirmed the same on Twitter on Monday (October 14).

Pathan, who hasn't played professional cricket since February 2019 while last played for India in October 2012, has been roped in to play an important role in an Ajay Gnanamuthu directorial ‘ChiyaanVikram58’.

Irfan will act opposite popular Tamil actor Chiyaan Vikram in the upcoming Tamil film of Gnanamuthu, who has directed films like Demonte Colony, and Imaikkaa Nodigal.

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Taking to Twitter on Monday, the filmmaker has announced the signing of Pathan for the Tamil movie tentatively titled ‘ChiyaanVikram58’. He tweeted: “Welcome on board @IrfanPathan Can’t wait to unleash your new avatar to the audience!! Time for some solid action!! ????????????????????????”

Meanwhile, Irfan, who will be playing the role of a police officer in the film, also confirmed his acting debut on Twitter. The cricketer, who is currently commenting in the ongoing Freedom Series between India and South Africa, was also excited about his second innings on the different wicket.

Irfan told Sportstar on the sidelines of the Pune Test, “When the director approached me, my first question was, ‘Why me?’. He explained that the role suited me perfectly and that they were keen on casting me. It took me a little time to make up my mind. And once I was convinced, I gave a go-ahead. I have never acted in a film before, so yeah, it is a new challenge.”

The 34-year-old also said that the language won’t be an issue as he who knows a bit of Tamil thanks to his previous association with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while insisting his acting will not affect his other commitments. He added, “I am really excited… It won’t affect my other commitments either. That’s the plan as of now.”

Irfan also revealed that he wasn’t sure about the same when the filmmakers approached him initially on social media. The fast bowler further added, “But later, they came to Vadodara and we spoke at length. It looked interesting then.”

He signed off, “As of now, this is a one-off project, but let’s see what’s in store… I never thought of acting, but then it happened. The casting is amazing… I have been a big fan of Vikram, and I have seen most of his films. And another major reason behind accepting the project is to work with A.R. Rahman.”

(With Sportstar Inputs)

 
 

By Rashmi Nanda - 15 Oct, 2019

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