The pieces are quickly falling in place for Aamir Khan and filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker’s ambitious cricket drama based on the 1952 India-Pakistan Test series. Days after mid-day reported that Farhan Akhtar is being considered for the role of a Pakistani cricketer, it has now come to light that the superstar and Gowariker have zeroed in on the film’s release window. The makers are apparently eyeing a December 2027 release to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the landmark Test series that concluded in December 1952.

Sources close to the development reveal that the yet-untitled film — which sees Khan step into the role of independent India’s first cricket captain, Lala Amarnath — is expected to go on floors in late October 2026. 

An insider told mid-day, “Ashutosh has been researching the period for a long time. The idea is to recreate not only the cricketing rivalry, but also the emotional and political atmosphere of the early years after the Partition.”

Pre-production work, including casting and location recce, is underway. An extensive shooting schedule is being planned across India and select international locations. “The target is clear: finish by mid-2027 and arrive in theatres in December 2027,” added the insider.

Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker’s next has become one of the most talked about projects in the industry, and for good reason. It sees the director reunite with Aamir Khan over two decades after their classic ‘Lagaan’ (2001).

Now, word is that Farhan Akhtar may have a special appearance in the film that is set against the backdrop of India’s Partition and will chronicle the life of Lala Amarnath, independent India’s first cricket captain.

Akhtar has been attached to the project as a producer, along with Aamir Khan Productions. But he is not ruling out the possibility of stepping in front of the camera. 

A source told mid-day that he is likely to slip into the role of a celebrated Pakistani cricketer. “Even though it’s an extended cameo, Farhan’s role is emotionally pivotal to the narrative. He plays Lala Amarnath’s close friend, who remains in Pakistan after the Partition. The film isn’t just about cricket; it’s about friendship during one of the most turbulent moments in the subcontinent’s history. Ashutosh has asked Farhan to consider the role, but it’s not locked yet,” shared a source.