Shraddha Kapoor set to star as Saina Nehwal in Badminton Biopic

After a successful badminton career, champion Saina Nehwal will soon have a biopic made about her story. And, Shraddha Kapoor has confirmed she will star as the young sportswoman.

Shraddha Kapoor made the announcement on Instagram. Posting a picture of the badminton champion, the Bollywood actress revealed her next exciting project to her fans.

Speaking about the news on 26^th April 2017, Shraddha Kapoor said: “I am honoured to be given this opportunity to play [Saina Nehwal] in my next film ‘SAINA’. The preparation for this film is going to be very, very challenging.

“It’s probably going to be my difficult film till date. Wish me luck everyone.”

No doubt Shraddha Kapoor is referring to the inevitable training she will take to prepare for the role. The actress also revealed that Amole Gupte will direct this biopic.

SAINA NEHWAL – The former World no 1 badminton player. An Indian girl. An inspiration to millions. A youth icon in the truest sense. Her journey to the top has been fascinating & I am honored to be given this opportunity to play her in my next film ‘SAINA’. The preparation for this film is going to be very, very challenging. It’s probably going to be my most difficult film till date. Wish me luck everyone. ?’SAINA’ is going to be directed by Amole Gupte & is produced by T series ?? ?@nehwalsaina

A post shared by Shraddha (@shraddhakapoor) on Apr 25, 2017 at 10:26pm PDT

Saina Nehwal has also expressed her excitement for the upcoming biopic. However, the badminton star initially appeared unaware of Shraddha’s role. She reportedly said:

“I was aware of the film, yes, but I didn’t know about the casting. It’s great if Shraddha plays me because she is a very talented actress and very hardworking. I am sure she will do justice to the role.”

She also joked how she could help the actress with a few badminton lessons, as they are great friends.

The young sportswoman recently met up with DESIblitz in Birmingham during the All England Open Badminton Championships 2017. She spoke more about her game and upcoming plans.

See here what else Saina told DESIblitz.

Revealing her plans for the upcoming season of this year, Saina said: “I just want to be more fitter and stronger for the next tournaments.”

The announcement of Shraddha’s role may come as a shock to some because recently reports suspected Deepika Padukone would get it instead. Especially as her father, Prakash Padukone, had a successful career as a badminton player himself.

Fans of both Shraddha Kapoor and Saina Nehwal will understandably be eager to learn more about the movie.

But, they may have to wait a while, as it’s supposedly due for a 2018 release.