![Mohsin Khan [Source: @amin_nawaz/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1757669807353_Mohsin_Khan_09.jpg?type=mq)
Mohsin Khan [Source: @amin_nawaz/X.com]
Before Mohsin Khan became a household name in Bollywood, he was a celebrated Pakistani opener famed for his craft against the world's fiercest bowlers. By the mid-1980s, the cricketer, who had carved out a successful international career, found himself embarking on an unexpected second innings on the film sets of Mumbai.
His transition from Pakistan's cricket pitch to the silver screen was as unplanned as it was successful, leading to a Filmfare nomination and a unique legacy that straddles two very different worlds of sport and cinema.
Mohsin Khan's Unplanned Debut With Batwara
Mohsin’s entry into films began serendipitously, a chance encounter that would define his post-cricket life. He revealed the story behind his unexpected debut.
"Actually, when I got offered Batwara, I was flying to London via Mumbai with my then wife Reena," Mohsin told PTI.
The cricketer-turned-actor said he was encouraged by his esteemed co-stars, finding a welcoming environment in the industry. "Dharam ji (Dharmendra) was very affectionate and Vinod (Khanna) was a friend," he recalled.
Director J P Dutta, who helmed Batwara, used a relatable cricket analogy to explain a demanding scene to the novice actor. "He told me, 'Mohsin, farz karo tumne hundred mara, phir bhi Pakistan India se haara. Kaisa mehsoos hoga aapko?' That was how he explained it," Mohsin said.
A Filmfare Nomination & Memorable Music
The performance was a resounding success, earning him a prestigious Filmfare nomination for Best Supporting Actor. "To be nominated alongside Nana and Anupam was a big achievement for someone who wasn't a trained actor," he said.
Among his most cherished cinematic experiences was working with the acclaimed director Mahesh Bhatt on the film Saathi, a project remembered for its iconic music.
"Bhatt saab is an intellectual. You sit with him and you can learn about life’s philosophies. That song is still heard by people. Kumar Sanu was brilliant," he said, referring to the classic track Zindagi ke Talaash mein Hum, Maut ke kitne paas aa gaye.
Mohsin Khan Reflecting on a Stellar Cricket Career
Mohsin's life before films was decorated with significant cricketing milestones. He became the first Pakistani batter to score a double century at Lord’s, a memory he holds dear.
"That was very special, especially becoming first Pakistani batter to hit a double ton at Lord's," he said.
He also recalled his success against one of the era's most fearsome fast bowlers. "To do it against the best fast bowler of my time was satisfying," he said, referring to scoring back-to-back centuries in Australia against Dennis Lillee in 1984.
Nevertheless, as Mohsin Khan's legend lives on, from the hallowed turf of Lord's to the glamour of Filmfare, Mohsin Khan remains a unique figure who mastered two arenas, leaving an indelible mark on both.
