Cricket and Cinema are undoubtedly the two lifelines for many Indians. Some fans are seen to worship movie stars and cricketers more than God, and since it’s cricketing season in India, we thought, why not present something intriguing to you?
We have often wondered how some cricketers would look if they starred in a film. Well, we aren’t the only ones to think that. Many cricketers have been seen in Bollywood films in prominent roles and as special appearances. So why not curate a list of movies featuring our favourite cricketers?
Here are the 8 amazing Bollywood films that featured your favourite cricketers. Also, we know that the IPL has been suspended due to a national issue, and these films can keep the cricketing spirit up in your hearts!
Here are the movies list:
83 Movie
This is one of the most successful Bollywood cricket films ever made. Based on the 1983 World Cup, this Kabir Khan film features many prominent actors as the players of the 1983 Indian Cricket Team. Interestingly, two legendary cricketers also appear in cameo roles.
In the film, Real-life Mohinder Amarnath played his father, Lala Amarnath, and his performance was quite impressive. Also, during the match against Zimbabwe, while Ranveer Singh was delivering a fantastic role as Kapil Dev, the legend himself was seen in one of the scenes applauding the reel Kapil for his batting.
Also, read:
Dialogues From 83 That Invoke That Winning Spirit
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Though Bhaag Milkha Bhaag isn’t strictly a movie about cricket, we surprisingly found an iconic cricketer in one of the supporting roles. While Farhan Akhtar, as Milkha Singh, was training at the sports academy, he came across his coach, Ranveer Singh. Ranveer Singh trained Milkha to be one of the nation’s fastest runners and to become the ‘Flying Sikh’ later in his life.
Legendary cricketer Yograj Singh, the father of Yujraj Singh, magnificently delivered Ranveer Singh’s important role.
Also, read:
9 Underrated Indian Patriotic Movies To Watch On Republic Day
UNindian
This is one of the most underrated rom-coms we have come across. Though made entirely in Australia, it is dil se Bollywood. Based on the unusual love story of Meera and Will, it is a perfect watch on a Sunday afternoon.
But what makes it special is the legendary Australian fast bowler, Brett Lee, as Will. We are all used to seeing him surprise batters with his pace, but as an actor, he did a great job, not gonna lie. He had a charming presence on the screen, which felt good to watch. If you haven’t watched it, spoiler alert: Brett Lee was seen dancing to a Bollywood song!
Patiala House
Patiala House revolves around the life of an ordinary man who desired to be a cricketer but couldn’t do so under family pressure. With Akshay Kumar playing the lead, Kali, Patiala House shows his journey from a regular shop owner to a star bowler in the English Cricket Team.
While the film featured many cricketers from England and Australia in the narrative, the most prominent cricketer was Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds. Symonds and Kali shared a sense of rivalry, leading to many tense moments in the film’s climax.
Iqbal
Iqbal is one of the best cricket films in Bollywood. It was not only critically acclaimed but also loved by the viewers. The film encapsulates the journey of a deaf and poor guy into the world of cricket as a fantastic bowler. The portrayal of his ups and downs was so intricately done that the film also received the National Award.
During Iqbal’s selection for the Indian Cricket Team, we find Kapil Dev in a special appearance, appreciating the bowler for his talent and skills.
Also, read:
10 Bollywood Cricket Movies That Are A Must Watch
Mujhse Shaadi Karogi
You might wonder why this film is on this list! Well, this Bollywood rom-com has nothing to do with cricket as such, but for its climax. The climax, where Salman Khan chases Akshay Kumar and finally ends up in a cricket stadium during an India-Pakistan match, portrays some stalwart cricketers.
In addition to Kapil Dev, the climax scene featured cricketers Navjot Singh Sidhu, Harbhajan Singh, Ashish Nehra, Irfan Pathan, and Mohammad Kaif. They were all seen in the stadium and made remarks as Salman confessed his love to Priyanka Chopra and proposed to her.
Also, read:
10 Hilarious & Best Akshay Kumar Comedy Movies
Aksar 2
Another not-so-cricket Bollywood movie made it to this list, all thanks to S Sreesanth. Yes, you must be aware that Sreesanth tried his luck in the film industry after his abrupt retirement from cricket. He was seen in movies from the South and also in Bigg Boss.
Sreesanth was an integral part of this film, playing the role of a lawyer. He was also involved in planning a murder with the protagonist, Zareen Khan, and finally got his hands on a large sum of money.
Victory
This Bollywood cricket film, featuring Harman Baweja, is much like Iqbal but captures the life of a struggling batsman from a humble background. Vijay, played by Harman Baweja, had to go against his father’s will to make it into the Indian Cricket Team, but unfortunately, he didn’t get to play any matches.
The film featured many international cricketers as part of the narrative, but players like Praveen Kumar, RP Singh, Brett Lee, and Rohit Sharma were in the spotlight. Surprisingly, Rohit Sharma’s injury finally gave Vijay a chance to play in the Indian cricket team’s starting eleven.
