Tahir Bhasin, who plays reel Sunil Gavaskar in Kabir Khan’s 83, wishes the iconic batsman on birthday

Mumbai: Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar turns 71 today (July 10). Actor Tahir Raj Bhasin, who plays the on-screen Sunil Gavaskar in Kabir Khan’s 83, wished the iconic cricketer saying he has inspired generations of sportsmen and women of our country. Tahir considered the cricketer’s inputs during the preparation process of his on-screen character and feels it is invaluable.

“I would like to wish him a very Happy Birthday, good health, great energy and a lifetime of happiness. I would also like to thank him for the generations of sportsmen and woman that his grit, commitment and career has inspired,” says the acclaimed actor.

Tahir had extensive sessions with the legend as the two interacted on the sets of the film 83 too. Tahir, who was last seen in the blockbuster Chhichore, says, “It was incredibly encouraging and at the same time daunting to have Sunil Gavaskar visit the sets of 83. He has an aura of ease and style that charmed everyone. Spending time with the master also helped me understand the mind of a champion sports star and how it battles challenges. This is something that I have imbibed and continue to carry with me long after we wrapped the film's shoot.”

The producers of his next big ticket film, 83, starring Ranveer Singh have announced that it would release this Christmas. Tahir is obviously excited about the development as coronavirus pandemic derailed it’s earlier release plans.

He says, "Public health and safety has to be the first priority in our new world and I’m elated that once the dust settles and adequate safety norms are put in place the audience will finally watch the film in theatres. The sense of nostalgia and uncompromising scale on which 83 has been envisioned is what drew me to this exciting project. Viewing the film as a community is what will give people a sense of being in a real stadium and this will enhance their experience."