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Was offered lead role in 2005 Bollywood film Gangster, says former Pakistani pacer Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistani speedster Shoaib Akhtar has a massive fan base in India despite the arch rivalry between India and Pakistan cricket teams and fans of the tearaway fast bowler would’ve loved nothing more than to play a leading role in a Bollywood movie.

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Pakistani Cricketer Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistani speedster Shoaib Akhtar has a massive fan base in India despite the arch rivalry between India and Pakistan cricket teams and fans of the tearaway fast bowler would’ve loved nothing more than to see him play a leading role in a Bollywood movie.

Now, it seems that the fantasy might’ve materialized as Akhtar was reportedly offered the lead role in the Mahesh Bhatt’s 2005 thriller Gangster. In an interview with Pakistan-based The Express Tribune, the flamboyant fast bowler, who during his heyday was nicknamed the “Rawalpindi Express” owing to his express bowling speed, revealed that he was approached to play the lead in 2005 Emraan Hashmi-starrer Gangster.

Mahesh Bhatt’s Gangster: A Love Story starring Emraan Hashmi and Shiney Ahuja in lead roles alongside Kangana Ranaut, became a commercial success at the box-office. The film’s music, composed by Pritam, was also well received.

The swashbuckling ex-cricketer last year revealed the title of his biopic Rawalpindi Express: Racing Against the Odds, however, last month, Akhtar announced that he was not associated with the project any longer citing “disagreements and contractual infractions.” However, it was not revealed if the film had begun production or has been shelved after the cricketer distanced himself from it.

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Shoaib Akhtar, born in Rawalpindi in Pakistan’s Punjab, was nicknamed the Rawalpindi Express owing to his fearsome speed. The tearaway Pakistani fast bowler became a nightmare for batters across the world in the early 2000s due to his ability to bowl toe-crushing Yorkers and exact prodigious reverse swing at near 100 mph.

The deadly fast bowler who said adieu to international cricket in 2011, produced some memorable and game-changing spells during his career with some of his most lethal bowling performances coming against the Men in Blue. He was also the first fast bowler to smash the 100mph speed barrier.

During his illustrious career, Akhtar scalped 178 wickets in Test cricket, 247 in ODIs and 21 wickets in T20Is.

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Cricket news

Who is Sahil Parakh? Teenager makes IPL debut for Delhi Capitals vs RCB

Sahil Parakh, an 18-year-old batter from Maharashtra, made his IPL debut for Delhi Capitals against RCB in IPL 2026.

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Sahil Parakh, an emerging batter from Maharashtra, made his Indian Premier League debut for Delhi Capitals during their 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The 18-year-old was handed his maiden cap as the franchise made changes to its playing XI, looking to test fresh talent in a crucial stage of the tournament.

Opens innings alongside KL Rahul

Parakh was included as an opening batter and partnered experienced wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul at the top. The move reflected Delhi Capitals’ intent to experiment with their batting combination and give exposure to young players in high-pressure games.

Short stay at the crease

The debut outing did not last long for the youngster, as he was dismissed early in the innings. Despite the brief appearance, the opportunity marked an important milestone in his career.

Promising name from domestic circuit

Parakh is a left-handed batter who has impressed in age-group and domestic cricket, earning attention for his performances at the state level. His selection in the Delhi Capitals squad for IPL 2026 underlines the franchise’s focus on nurturing young talent for the future.

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Cricket news

Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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Cricket news

At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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