Anushka Sharma and producer-brother Karnesh Ssharma (below) have been the minds behind some brave stories in the recent past — from NH10 (2015) to Paatal Lok (2020) and Bulbbul (2020). So, when they announced Chakda Xpress, inspired by the life of Jhulan Goswami, it naturally piqued curiosity.

Convinced that Anushka is the best fit for the role, Karnesh says the actor is intensely preparing to bring to screen an honest rendition of the former Indian women’s cricket captain. “The story spans 12 years, and is a big-budget film. So, you need a big actor to front it to justify the budget. From her acting prowess to star value, there is no doubt about Anushka. She is training hard to [play] a fast bowler,” he says. The team plans to take the Prosit Roy-helmed film on floors in June. Probe if Virat Kohli is helping them perfect the cricketing nuances, Karnesh says, “He helped us get the right coaches.”

Most of their projects have women driving the narratives. Chakda Xpress is no exception. “The film is not about cricket,” asserts Karnesh. “It’s about women’s struggles in cricket. Jhulan is the face of it, but [at its heart], the film is about all the women who have tried to make a difference. All they want is an opportunity and respect. When you see the film, you will realise what these women had to endure to play a match. Now, women’s cricket is in a much better place. But it’s important to remind people of these women’s struggles; it’s important to support their game.”

The film’s first look received polarised reactions, with many questioning Anushka’s accent. Did it upset him? “It is art, and it is open to discussion. As long as it doesn’t get violent or belittle [someone], we accept it,” says Karnesh, whose Clean Slate Studioz has been announced as the principal partner for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.