In the high-stakes world of cricket biopics, few films have generated as much anticipation as ‘Chakda Xpress,’ Anushka Sharma’s return to acting and a heartfelt celebration of Jhulan Goswami’s trailblazing journey. Yet, in a twist no cricket fan saw coming, the finished film has suddenly hit an unexpected pause, leaving both the sporting community and Bollywood abuzz with questions.
Originally slated for a major Netflix release just ahead of the 2023 Women’s Cricket World Cup, ‘Chakda Xpress’ was envisioned as a tribute not only to Jhulan Goswami’s singular achievements but also to the unstoppable rise of women’s cricket in India. The movie’s promotional engine seemed primed for a full throttle run, but instead, the gears ground to a halt.
Speaking to the Hindustan Times, Jhulan Goswami herself admitted, “Mereko aisa koi news nahi hai (I don’t have any such news), aur call mujhe kar rahe sab! Mujhe koi comment nahi karna,” highlighting the deafening silence surrounding the project. Even within the production, editor Manas Mittal shared with The Hollywood Reporter India, “It was clear that it was not coming out. Since then, there has been total silence.”
Sources suggest the project’s current limbo is rooted in creative differences and budgetary concerns between Netflix and Clean Slate Filmz, the production house helmed by Karnesh Sharma. With artistic visions reportedly clashing and financial agreements stalled, the film’s journey to release remains as uncertain as a rain-affected ODI.
This development is particularly poignant for fans and players alike. Jhulan Goswami’s story, from a small town in West Bengal to becoming the fastest woman bowler in the world-is one of relentless perseverance, challenge, and triumph. In a nation passionate about cricket, her rise has been a beacon for countless young girls dreaming of donning the Indian jersey.
The significance of ‘Chakda Xpress’ extends far beyond the entertainment world. It represents a cultural moment, an opportunity to bring the struggles and victories of Indian women cricketers to a global audience. It’s a rare piece of mainstream media devoted to a sporting woman’s perspective, crafted with the intent to inspire, empower, and inform.
With Anushka Sharma in the main role, supported by an ensemble cast including Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Renuka Shahane, and Mahesh Thakur, the film promised an authentic and dramatic portrayal of Goswami’s battles both on and off the field.
For now, fans and those within the women’s cricket ecosystem remain in a holding pattern, hoping that this boundary-defying story reaches audiences and Jhulan Goswami’s legacy receives the cinematic celebration it so richly deserves.
As the cricketing world waits with bated breath, one hope remains undimmed: that ‘Chakda Xpress’ will soon take its rightful place at the forefront of sports narratives, inspiring the next generation of fast bowlers and barrier-breakers. Stay tuned as we track this developing story and continue to champion the voices and stories of Indian women’s cricket.
(Quotes sourced from News 18)
