Doosra Review: Plabita Borthakur, Ankur Vikal Are Superb In Abhinay Deo’s Juxtaposed Revisiting Of Sourav Ganguly’s Iconic Moment

Doosra is a theatrical film directed by Abhinay Deo, starring Plabita Borthakur and Ankur Vikal, that revisits a pivotal moment in Indian cricket history. The movie focuses on the iconic image of Sourav Ganguly waving his shirt from the Lord's balcony during the 2002 NatWest Final victory over England. However, it takes a unique approach by juxtaposing this public moment with the story of Tara, a young girl from a conservative household who is challenged by the sight of Ganguly's defiant act on television.

Tara's character, portrayed by Plabita Borthakur, serves as the catalyst for exploring the societal struggles and opposition faced by Sourav Ganguly, both when he joined the team and when he became the captain of India. The film delves into the earth-shattering match-fixing allegations and Sachin Tendulkar's decision to step down from the captaincy, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding Ganguly's leadership.

The performances in Doosra are noteworthy, with Plabita Borthakur delivering a standout performance as Tara, questioning the norms of her household and society. Ankur Vikal shines as the patriarchal head of the household, portraying the complexities of his character with nuance. Samidha Guru and the rest of the cast, including Tvisha Seema and Krishna Gokani, also deliver strong performances, bringing depth to their respective roles.

Abhinay Deo's direction strikes a balance between humor and harsh societal truths, effectively weaving the two stories together. The film serves as a reminder of a significant period in Indian cricket history that has often been overlooked. Doosra is a seamless blend of personal and historical narratives, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in the world of cricket.