Umair Jaswal exits Rawalpindi Express due to 'creative and personal reasons'

Singer, who was set to play Shoaib Akhtar in the biopic, said he will not be associated with the project anymore

Singer-turned-actor, Umair Jaswal, has announced that he is no longer essaying celebrated bowler, Shoaib Akhtar, in the latter's upcoming biopic, Rawalpindi Express. Jaswal cited 'creative and personal' reasons for stepping away from the much-awaited project. 

"Due to creative and personal reasons I have decided to step away from the Shoaib Akhtar biopic project, Rawalpindi Express," the singer announced on social media. "I will no longer be associated with any media or news related to this project. Wishing everyone involved all the best," he added. 

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

In November, Jaswal was reported to star as the former cricketer in the upcoming biopic. The project will focus on the fast bowler's life - on the professional and personal front. 

Jaswal had confirmed that he will be playing a leading role in the motion picture. With an immersive storyline, the film is a tribute to the celebrated cricketer, Akhtar. Fans will also see other well-known celebrities from the Pakistani entertainment industry playing key characters in the film.

The movie is set to release on November 16, 2023. Further, the aforementioned project had said to mark Jaswal's return to the big screen after six long years of focusing on his music career. 

“This project is a dream come true for me as an actor," the Coke Studio star had shared in a statement. "I feel extremely fortunate to portray Shoaib Akhtar on screen. His life is an inspiration to several youngsters in Pakistan. He is not just a superstar in Pakistan but for all cricket lovers globally."

He further shared, "It is a huge responsibility to shoulder, and I am completely aware of this. I am cherishing every moment of this journey and I will always treasure the time spent with him in preparing for this role which required a new level of dedication and effort. He has recounted several stories and experiences of the ups and downs he has faced in life en route to becoming an international star cricketer. I hope that audience loves this narrative and gets inspired." 

When asked about how feels about casting Jaswal for the role, director Faraz Qaiser said, “The film will span from 1975 to 2002 and requires physical transformation to be shown by an actor. Umair Jaswal perfectly fits the role as he is a sports and fitness enthusiast and has worked on his body and fitness level for several months."

Qaiser added, "His dedication is unparallel and he recognizes the gravity of the role, and the commitment required to bring in the persona of legendary cricketer Shoaib Akhtar live on screen. Umair has a keen understanding of the bowling technique as well. I am extremely pleased to have Umair Jaswal on board and we are looking forward to starting shooting in December 2022 in Pakistan, Dubai, New Zealand, and Australia”.

Qaiser is yet to open up about Jaswal's exit from the project. 

Rawalpindi Express is expected to capture the passion, excitement, purpose, activism, and positivity around sports. The movie is said to set a benchmark and bind audiences with the power of sports, its cultural impact, and its unrivaled ability to transcend borders and barriers.

The film tells a story about the enduring power of the human spirit, relationships and complexities that come along with it. It’s a story of sacrifice and overcoming one’s demons and fears. Most importantly, it’s a story of unconditional love; for family, for a nation, and for the game of cricket. It’s a story that must be told and a fantastic team has come together for it.

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