It’s time for Irfan Pathan to explore the world of cinema.
The India pacer is all set to make his debut on the big screen as he has been roped by director Ajay Gnanamuthu for his upcoming Tamil film which has Vikram in the lead.
The Vikram film, which will introduce Irfan Pathan to the big screen, is tentatively titled "Vikram 58". It is directed by Ajay Gnanamuthu, who is known for films like "Imaikka Nodigal" and "Demonte Colony".
The producers of the film tweeted confirmation that Irfan was on board. "Proud and honoured to introduce Irfan Pathan in Chiyaan Vikram58 in a super stylish action avatar!! Welcome on Board sir and wish you a sensational debut."
AR Rahman has scored music for "Vikram 58". Filming of the project will begin soon, and will be done across various parts of India. Sivakumar Vijayan is helming the film's camera work.
Gnanmuthu tweeted: "Welcome on board Irfan Pathan. Can't wait to unleash your new avatar to the audience!! Time for some solid action!!." The director also tweeted a picture of himself and Pathan.
Irfan is no stranger to showbiz. He has already wowed his fans with his video songs on social media and his appearance on dance reality show "Jhalak Dikhla Jaa Reloaded."
Irfan acknowledges cinema is an entirely different ball game. "It took me a while to think over the film project because although I have worked in dance reality shows, this (big screen) is going to be a totally new territory."
The cricketer said the director succeeded in convincing him how suitable he was for the role.
Is Irfan jittery about appearing on the big screen? Not really, says he.
"I have played for India in cricket appearing before thousands of spectators. Unlike in the game, in cinema, I will have the advantage of re-take. So not jittery," he said.
Pathan has played 29 Test matches, taking 100 wickets and scoring 1,105 runs. He also played in 102 ODIs capturing 173 wickets and scoring 1,544 runs. In the shortest format of the game, he appeared in 24 T20Is claiming 28 wickets.