The upcoming film, Azhar, has been embroiled in a curious case of controversy. The makers have deliberately avoided the use of real names of certain characters and personalities and have also altered datelines to avoid any obvious similarities. However, certain events, looks of cricketers and key matches have been re-created and the stark similarity runs as an undercurrent.

In spite of the altered reality, there seem to be parallels of the cricket landscape of the late 90s and early 2000s in the film which is directed by Tony D'Souza. As the movie approaches its theatrical release, several personalities from the cricket arena maybe slightly unsettled about what it may reveal about them and their association with the match-fixing scandal. There is apprehension and fear that the film's strong portrayal of cricket's darkest days may open a can of worms from the past.

Azhar, presented by Balaji Motion Pictures and Sony Pictures Networks, releases on May 13.