Brett Lee changes pitch in India film debut

MUMBAI: He is used to playing in front of packed crowds in sporting stadiums — now Australian cricketing great Brett Lee is hoping to win new fans as his debut movie hits cinemas in India.

In an email interview with AFP ahead of the release of feature film UNIndian in India on Friday, Lee said he hoped his fledgling role may prove a stepping stone into the country’s cinematic heartland.

“Maybe a Bollywood movie next! Fingers crossed people enjoy this film,” he said.

With his tousled blond hair and twinkly eyes, the Australian fast bowler enjoys huge popularity in cricket-mad India after a decade playing matches on the subcontinent.

“Both have different challenges,” Lee said of his switch from sport to the silver screen.

With the tagline “getting spicy everywhere”, the cross-cultural comedy is directed by Indian-Australian director Anupam Sharma and set in Sydney, featuring a large Indian cast.

“I’ve grown up playing cricket so this acting stuff is brand new. That keeps it fresh and exciting,” Lee said.