Srijit Mukherji, a popular and acclaimed filmmaker of India, said he would like to make a biopic on Bangladesh cricket superstar Shakib Al Hasan.

Srijit was among the spectators of the second and final Dhaka Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

On Wednesday afternoon, Srijit had a conversation with UNB at the gallery of the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Read: Shakib’s inner child comes out on rain-soaked day

“Cricket is something so close to my heart,” Srijit, who recently directed a film based on the life of Indian women cricket superstar Mithali Raj, said. “I would really love to make a movie based on the life of Shakib if an opportunity comes along the way in future. He is really a great cricketer. I saw a few wonderful cover drives of him today— those were amazing.”

Srijit came into limelight with his super hit movie ‘Autograph’ which was released back in 2010. After that, he also directed movies like Baishe Srabon, Hemlock Society, Rajkahini, Zulfiqar, Vinci Da— to name a few.

Most of these movies drew a huge viewership in Bangladesh, but through a stealthy path— downloading front torrents server or something like this, as those movies were not released in Bangladesh officially.

“It would have been great if we could release movies in Bangladesh officially. The authorities from both countries are working on this— as I know. I hope people of Bangladesh can watch our movies directly in the cinema halls,” Srijit said, voicing sadness as many cinema halls are being shut down in Bangladesh.

With the Autograph, Srijit introduced Anupam Roy who later became a superstar musician in Bengali film and drew popularity in both India and Bangladesh.

Srijit played an influential role behind Anupam becoming so popular with his unconventional lyrics in Bengali.

Srijit is visiting Bangladesh to meet his in-laws in Dhaka. The director is married to Bangladeshi actress Rafiath Rashid Mithila in 2019.

Read: Shakib emerges as highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cups

“I’ve watched cricket at many different venues in India, and in other countries, but in Bangladesh, this is the first time. Bangladesh batted really badly last evening. But they have a good bunch of young cricketers who can do well in future. I really like the way Afif (Hossain) plays. He is courageous and he has a great future ahead,” Srijit added.

Srijit also asked about Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed. He believes Taskin has great potential for Bangladesh as he bowls at a good pace.

When Srijit was talking to UNB, Mushfiqur Rahim was trapped run out in the field. And Srijit said: “I thought Mushfiqur and Liton (Das) would carry it to the end.” He looked sad as Bangladesh were struggling so hard to save the match in the afternoon on the fifth day.