Rajkummar Rao begins prep for Sourav Ganguly biopic, says playing a left-handed batter is a challenge : Bollywood News

With films like Bhool Chuk Maaf, Stree, Vicky Aur Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, and many others, Rajkummar Rao has unofficially become the go-to face for the small-town Indian love story. However, the actor’s recent choices suggest that he is now working to break away from that image. In his latest release, Maalik, Rajkummar takes on the role of a gangster, and up next, he is set to headline the biopic of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.

Rajkummar Rao begins prep for Sourav Ganguly biopic, says playing a left-handed batter is a challenge

While many details about the biopic remain under wraps, Rajkummar recently opened up about preparing for the role. After the official announcement of his casting, Ganguly had called Rao “the right choice” to portray him on screen. Reacting to the praise, Rajkummar told, as per a report by Mid-Day, “I am relieved to hear that Dada thinks I can portray him correctly on screen. It’s an extremely challenging role and a big responsibility. I’m nervous, but I will do my best not to let him down.”

The film, to be directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, is scheduled to begin filming in January 2026. Speaking about the project, Rajkummar added, “Everybody is taking a lot of care in recreating Dada’s life for a theatrical experience. We have pushed the shooting to next year as we needed some time for the prep. It’s a big responsibility to play one of our most iconic cricketing heroes.”

It’s worth noting that this isn’t Rajkummar’s first time playing a cricketer on screen. Last year, he was seen as a cricketer in Mr. & Mrs. Mahi, co-starring Janhvi Kapoor. But when asked if that training would benefit him in this role, Rajkummar was quick to disagree. “While I know how to play cricket, being a left-handed batter is a completely different ball game. My muscle memory is all about being a right-handed batter. So, I need time to practise. I’ve deliberately not met Dada yet. I want to meet him when we are fully into prep mode,” he said.

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