In the thrilling realm of cricket biopics, few films have stirred up as much excitement as ‘Chakda Xpress.’ This marks Anushka Sharma’s heartfelt return to the silver screen, and the film is poised to celebrate the groundbreaking journey of Jhulan Goswami, a true icon in women’s cricket. However, in a twist that has taken many cricket enthusiasts by surprise, the film has hit an unexpected pause, leading to a flurry of speculation within both the sporting and Bollywood communities.
Initially set for a grand release on Netflix just before the 2023 Women’s Cricket World Cup, ‘Chakda Xpress’ aimed not only to honor Jhulan Goswami’s extraordinary achievements but also to highlight the meteoric rise of women’s cricket in India. As exciting trailers and promotional materials rolled out, anticipation was at a fever pitch. Yet now, the project seems to be mired in uncertainty, leaving fans anxiously awaiting news.
Jhulan herself recently spoke to the Hindustan Times, candidly expressing her frustration: “Mereko aisa koi news nahi hai (I don’t have any such news), aur call mujhe kar rahe sab! Mujhe koi comment nahi karna,” underscoring the eerie silence enveloping the film’s progress. Editor Manas Mittal also weighed in, sharing with The Hollywood Reporter India, “It was clear that it was not coming out. Since then, there has been total silence.”
It appears that a blend of creative differences and budget issues between Netflix and Clean Slate Filmz, the production company founded by Karnesh Sharma, is stalling the project. With artistic visions colliding and financial negotiations at a standstill, the film’s path to release feels as unpredictable as a rain-affected ODI match.
This halt in production is particularly disheartening for fans and players alike. Jhulan Goswami’s journey—from a small town in West Bengal to becoming the fastest female bowler in the world—is a story brimming with perseverance, resilience, and triumph. In a cricket-obsessed nation, her ascent serves as a powerful beacon for countless young girls who dare to dream of representing India on the international stage.
The importance of ‘Chakda Xpress’ goes far beyond mere entertainment; it represents a cultural moment that seeks to bring the struggles and successes of Indian women cricketers into the limelight. This film promises to be one of the rare instances where a mainstream narrative showcases a woman’s perspective in sports, crafted with the intent to inspire, empower, and inform.
With Anushka Sharma stepping into the role of Jhulan, and a talented cast featuring Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Renuka Shahane, and Mahesh Thakur alongside, the film promised to deliver a compelling and authentic portrayal of Goswami’s challenges both on and off the field.
For now, fans and supporters within the women’s cricket community are left in a state of anticipation, hopeful that this boundary-pushing story will eventually reach a wider audience, allowing Jhulan Goswami’s legacy to be honored in the way it truly deserves.
As the cricket world waits with bated breath, one sentiment remains strong: the hope that ‘Chakda Xpress’ will soon take its rightful stage, inspiring the next generation of fast bowlers and trailblazers. We will keep our eyes peeled for updates on this story and continue to champion the voices and stories of women’s cricket in India.
Image Source: Jhulan Goswami @ Instagram
