Indian women’s cricketer Mithali Raj turned 39 on December 3, 2021. Celebrating her special day, the cricketer, in a social media post, released the poster of her biopic – Shabaash Mithu. She will be played by Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu.

Along with the poster, the makers announced that the biopic is set to release worldwide theatrically on February 4 next year.

Backed by Viacom18 Studios, the biographical film is directed by noted Bengali filmmaker Srijit Mukherji.

“’Shabaash Mithu’ is a coming-of-age tale of women’s cricket in India as witnessed by the most successful woman cricketer. It will chronicle the highs and lows, setbacks and moments of euphoria of Raj’s life,” the official synopsis of the film reads.

Viacom18 Studios announced the release date of the movie on the occasion of the Indian women’s cricket team captain’s 39th birthday “ONE GIRL with HER CRICKET BAT has shattered world records and stereotypes. You’ve done it all Champ… Happy Birthday Mithu @M_Raj03 Partying face #ShabaashMithu in theatres on 4|02|2022. @taapsee @ActorVijayRaaz @AndhareAjit @priyaaven,” the banner’s official Twitter handle posted.

The film, written by Priya Aven, went on floors in Mumbai in April and the team wrapped the shooting last month.

Some portions of the film have been shot at the iconic Lord’s cricket ground in London.

Seasoned actor Vijay Raaz will be seen in a key role in the film.

Mithali, in November this year, was conferred with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. On receiving the award, Mithali said that she is hopeful that her achievements would inspire the country’s young girls to pursue their dreams and be the catalysts for change.

The 38-year-old stalwart of Indian women’s cricket was one of the 12 sportspersons to receive the Khel Ratna, the country’s highest sporting honour, from President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

“Women in sport are powerful catalysts of change and when they get the appreciation they deserve, it inspires change in several other women wanting to achieve their dreams,” Raj said in a statement on her Twitter handle.

“I sincerely hope that my journey inspires young girls all across the country to pursue their dreams and know that only when you dream can you make it happen.”

She said representing the country was her dream and receiving the award was a validation of the hard work she had put in her over two-decade-long illustrious career starting from 1999.