Gaurav Dubey (MID-DAY; June 30, 2015)

Sushant Singh Rajput has been undergoing rigorous physical training for Neeraj Pandey’s M S Dhoni - The Untold Story,, in which he will essay the role of India’s most successful cricket captain. Since the mention of Dhoni is incomplete without his famous helicopter shot, Sushant had been working on it — until he apparently suffered a rib fracture.

Says a source working on the project, “He has been working hard to get into the skin of the character and in doing so, he fractured his ribs and was out of action for more than three weeks. He is being trained by former Indian wicket-keeper Kiran More for the film. Sushant also did some net practise alongwith Dhoni, who has also been helping him perfect his body language and mannerisms.”

After several hurdles, the film is slated to go on floors next month in Dhoni’s hometown, Ranchi, where it will be majorly shot. Sources say its release has been pushed to next year.

Both Sushant and Pandey were not available for a comment.