Director Vamshi Paidipally has called a wrap on the first schedule of Salman Khan’s next, the working title of which is ‘SVC63’. Next stop? Manali. Even as the team prepares for the subsequent leg of the Khan and Nayanthara-led actioner, one key piece of casting remains undecided — the antagonist. Sources close to the production have told mid-day that Akshaye Khanna and Malayalam actor Fahadh Faasil are the top contenders.

Producer Dil Raju and the director are said to be in discussion with both actors. “The script demands someone who can stand toe-to-toe with Salman. Both Fahadh and Akshaye bring different energies. That’s exactly why the team is taking its time before locking an actor. Earlier, the team was also considering Arvind Swamy,” shared an insider.

After the Manali shoot, the unit will be Hyderabad-bound. The insider added, “The antagonist will have to be roped in before the Hyderabad leg begins as the face-off portions will be shot in that stint.”

mid-day reached out to the production house, which didn’t respond till press time.

Salman Khan and Akshaye Khanna featured in the ensemble drama, ‘Salaam-e-Ishq’ (2007). The two, however, did not have any scenes together.