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South Indian actor Siddharth, who takes on the challenging role of Arjun – a cricketer representing the country in the upcoming sports drama ‘Test’ – has revealed the inspiration behind his portrayal of a batter. The film, directed by renowned producer-turned-filmmaker Sashikanth, is set to stream on Netflix from April 4 onwards. ‘Test’ marks Sashikanth’s directorial debut and features an impressive ensemble cast, including R. Madhavan, Nayanthara and Meera Jasmine.
Siddharth on challenges of playing a cricketer on-screen
Speaking at a promotional event organized by the filmmakers, Siddharth opened up about the challenges of stepping into the shoes of a professional cricketer. He emphasized that cricket is more than just a sport in India – it is deeply embedded in the culture and emotions of millions. This, he said, made the role even more demanding, as he had to ensure authenticity in his performance.
“In our country, cricket is life. I, too, love cricket. But when you portray a cricketer on screen, you cannot just act—you have to live the role. People watch cricket for hours every day. They observe the smallest details, from batting stances to bowling actions, and they expect absolute perfection. You cannot fake it. That was my biggest challenge in this film,” Siddharth was quoted as saying by The Statesman.
To ensure his portrayal was as accurate as possible, Siddharth underwent extensive training, studying the techniques and movements of real cricketers. “We have tried to be as true as possible to the passion and beauty of the game. Every stance, every stroke, and every emotion had to be real,” he added.
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Siddharth’s tribute to Indian cricket legend
When asked if there was one person he would dedicate his performance to, Siddharth didn’t hesitate to name cricketing legend Rahul Dravid. The former Indian captain, known for his unwavering discipline, patience, and resilience, has been a source of inspiration for Siddharth since his school days.
“I can’t name just one person because if I say one, I will have to list many names. But if you ask me personally—since my school days, if there is one person I have admired and followed, even before he made his debut, through his career, and even after his retirement – it is Rahul Dravid. So, anything I do in this film as a Test batsman, if I had to dedicate it to one living cricketer, it would be Rahul Dravid. His composure, dedication, and love for the game have always inspired me, and I hope I have done justice to this role by channeling that same spirit,” Siddharth revealed.
Test: A highly anticipated sports drama with a strong emotional core
The trailer for Test, released recently, gives audiences a glimpse into an intense, emotion-driven narrative that intertwines the struggles, aspirations, and dreams of its central characters. The film promises a gripping storyline that goes beyond cricket, delving into the sacrifices and personal battles of those involved in the sport.
With Test set for its Netflix release, the film is expected to offer a mix of sports and intense drama, showcasing the struggles of a cricketer trying to make his mark. The involvement of seasoned actors like Madhavan and Nayanthara, coupled with Siddharth’s dedication to the role, makes this one of the most anticipated sports dramas of the year. As Siddharth steps into the shoes of a Test cricketer, fans are eager to see how he brings his character to life in a story that captures not just the essence of cricket but also the resilience and determination required to succeed at the highest level.
