The trailer of Kabir Khan’s most awaited film ‘83’ has been released lately. And we can also catch the glimpse of Punjabi actors Ammy Virk and Harrdy Sandhu. Fans are not getting tired of praising their looks as the former cricketers. But very few know that Harrdy Sandhu who played the role of famed cricketer Madan Lal in the film had a dream to play for India.
Harrdy never thought of becoming a singer. As earlier his only dream was to play for India’s Cricket team and he was even selected in the India’s Under-19 cricket World Cup also. But due to his injuries he had to quit the sport. He shared how injuries spoiled his career on the field, but his wish to act was fulfilled.
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Speaking to the Koimoi, Harrdy Sandhu revealed his fondness for cricket, the singer said, “I started out as a fast bowler and I was selected for India’s under-19 cricket World Cup team. Unfortunately, I hurt my elbow during training and even though I tried my best to get it treated, all efforts were futile. Then I went to Australia on a student visa to figure out the next episode in my life and settle there. When nothing seemed to work out, I started driving a taxi to make ends meet.”
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He further continued, “One day while driving, I met Sri Lanka’s former cricket physiotherapist who told me my injury is similar to Chaminda Vaas. He suggested a specific treatment for me and I flew back to India in the hope of playing cricket again but I had booked myself a return flight to Australia as a backup. Even though I made it to Punjab’s Ranji Trophy team, a few days before the match, my injury resurfaced and that was my last day on the pitch.”
Afterwards sharing the story on how he bagged the role in the film, Harrdy Sandhu said, “In February 2019, I was in Chandigarh only for a day and I randomly got a call from Ammy Virk who was playing role in film 83 said, ‘Come down to the restaurant of your building, I have to make you meet someone.’ That’s when I met Kabir Khan sir and Balwinder Sandhu ji for the first time. We talked about how ’83’ is taking shape and they asked me if I could replicate Madan Lal ji’s bowling action. Coincidentally, Madan Lal ji had coached me at an NCB camp and he was a fast bowler too so I thought I could do this.”
“I practised a lot and sent them a video of me bowling as Madan Lal ji but I didn’t receive a response for a long while. One fine day, I heard from my team that they loved the finesse with which I pulled it off and that’s how I became a part of ’83’. I am elated that after so many roadblocks it is releasing!” concluded the singer.
Based on the story of the historic 1983 World Cup83 will mark the Bollywood debut of Harrdy Sandhu. And for now the Punjabi fans are equally excited to watch the film in theatres, as it is extremely special for Punjabi audiences due to the appearance of Punjabi artists.
