Umair Jaswal exits Rawalpindi Express

Umair Jaswal, a singer-turned-actor, has revealed that he would no longer play legendary bowler Shoaib Akhtar in the latter’s planned biography, Rawalpindi Express. Jaswal claimed ‘creative and personal’ reasons for leaving the much-anticipated production.

“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. 

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 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. 

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

“This project is a dream come true for me as an actor,” the Coke Studio star 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.” 

The film portrays the narrative of the lasting force of the human spirit, as well as the connections and complexity that come with it. It’s a narrative about conquering one’s problems and phobias through sacrifice. Most significantly, it’s a narrative of unwavering love for family, a nation, and the game of cricket. It’s a narrative that has to be told, and a brilliant team has come together to make it happen.

We are extremely disheartened to find that Jaswal will not be playing the lead role.