Abhishek Bachchan plays an unsympathetic and failed test cricketer in Ghoomer. Saiyyami Kher is an upcoming batting prodigy who loses her right hand in an accident.
Abhishek plays her coach who trains her with unconventional techniques, to turn her fate as a bowler. Together, they invent a new style of bowling “Ghoomer”.
Abhishek plays a middle-aged man and had to gain 9 kgs for the role. His character was of an alcoholic who often criticises the world and system around him.
Abhishek deliberately chose not to use alcohol and rely on acting rather than substance, aiming for a more realistic, sober performance.
Also, the most challenging part was the channeling of the character's intense bitterness without making him unlikable. He had to portray a nasty, acerbic exterior but ultimately had to gain the respect and empathy of the audience by the end of the film.
Abhishek’s left-arm spin had to look natural for which he had to completely re-train his daily habits. He practiced everyday’s tasks with his left hand like brushing his teeth and driving, to build the physical co-ordination required for the role. He also trained with Rohan Gavaskar to perfect his bowling technique.
Abhishek is famously self-critical and is rarely completely satisfied with his own acting. Striving for perfection, he received praise from his family and audience for his performance as a coach in the film.
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