Rawalpindi Express – A Shoaib Akhtar Biopic teaser drops amidst legal dispute

ISLAMABAD: In a surprising turn of events, the official teaser of the controversial movie Rawalpindi Express – A Shoaib Akhtar Biopic has been released amidst a legal battle between the movie’s subject and its creators.

The highly-anticipated biopic features Gohar Rasheed in the lead role, a role which was earlier declined by singer Umair Jaswal due to the legal battle.

The teaser aligned with the tagline, “Running against the odds,” showcased Akhtar’s  journey from childhood struggles to conquering challenges and achieving success.

As per the reports, the movie has been shot across 47 locations over a span of 68 days. The ensemble cast includes Faran Tahir, Saleem Mairaj, Raheela Agha, Salman Shahid, Shafqat Cheema, Usman Peerzada, Umer Aalam, Ghazala Butt, Hamza Khawaja, Rabita Ali, Faiza Khan, Omair Rana, Adnan Shah Tipu, Rahim Pardesi, Hammad Siddique, Baatin Farouqi, with Rasheed in the titular role.

However, the teaser dropped amid the reports of the movie’s production being halted as in January, the renowned fast-bowler distanced himself from the biopic, citing repeated “contractual violations.” Through his social media channels, Akhtar warned, “Severe legal action will be taken if the makers continue to make a biography film and use my name or life story events in any way.”

Meanwhile in July, Akhtar took to his X to announce that he had secured a stay order against the makers of the biopic.

Important announcement. Stay order secured against supposed biopic on my life. Details attached. pic.twitter.com/G9mpZTPulo

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) July 4, 2023

Directed by Faraz Qaiser, Rawalpindi Express, A Q films production, is written by Qaiser Nawaz.

Shoaib Akhtar, known for his breathtaking speed and fastest delivery in the history of cricket represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 163 ODIs and 15 T20Is.

Check out the teaser below.