IPL 2012 to have Akshay and Riteish as umpires?

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

July 1, 2011 - 3:06 AM IST

Just last week we broke news around how Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Suresh Raina are being wooed by Sajid Nadiadwala and Sajid Khan to put an appearance in their most ambitious film till date, Housefull 2. Now there is more information around this association that has come in. Apparently, Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukh would also be officiating as umpires during IPL 2012.

IPL 2012 to have Akshay and Riteish as umpires?

"Though neither Akshay nor Riteish know about this as yet, there are definite plans being put together by the makers of Housefull 2", informs a source, "Since the film releases immediately after IPL 2012 which concludes in April, both Sajids are trying to form an association with the cricketing body that allows actors to officiate in a match or two. This would not just add glamour to cricket but also add as a publicity tool for Housefull 2."

This would also mean a role reversal of sorts for Bollywood heroes and the cricketers. So on one end Dhoni and Raina would be facing the camera for Housefull 2 where roles have been written especially for them, Akshay and Riteish would step in as real umpires on the ground as they face the heat in the middle of some live action.

"The biggest challenge for the makers now is to figure out whether it is indeed possible for non-cricketers to actually stand in a match", the source continues, "Riteish still has some formal experience around cricket as he recently participated in the 'Celebrity Cricket League'. However, Akshay has only played some friendly matches but that's about it. Sajid Nadiadwala is in talks with the IPL body and understanding the logistics involved. He is trying to make sure that if not for the entire match, at least for a few overs Akshay and Riteish could take the ground."

A close associate adds that they may just be content even if Akshay and Riteish officiate as third umpires. "After all the idea is to gain as many eyeballs as possible for Housefull 2 and the cricket matches", he says, "If not on the field, they could do it off the field. Eventually if nothing works out, they may just be seated in a private cabin at the stadium and would be giving their views unofficially. Par ek baat pakki hai ki woh umpire toh zaroor banenge. They want Housefull 2 to reach out in a big way and what better way than to go interactive during the IPL season itself."

Both Sajids are keeps cards close to their chest though. While Sajid Khan reverted stating, "Please ask Sajid Nadiadwala about it. He takes all such decisions", Sajid Nadiadwala sent back a text asking, "From where did you hear this? It sounds like an interesting idea though. Let me think about it."