John Abraham, who was supposed to co-produce the sequel of Aamir Khan’s 1999 film Sarfarosh, is no longer a part of the film. Director John Matthew Matthan confirmed that the Parmanu actor is not doing the cop-drama anymore.

Last year, John Abraham confirmed that he will be doing the film. In an interview to PTI, he had said, “John Mathew Matthan and I are co-producing the film. We are still working on the script but yes it’s happening with me. We plan to go on floors next year. He is probably the only director whose house I went to after seeing Sarfarosh and said, ‘Man, what a film’.”

In a recent interaction with Mid-day, director John Mathew Matthan said, “I never confirmed that John is doing my film, nor did I mention any other actor’s name to the media. I am not aware of what he has said. We were in negotiation, but, as of now, nothing has materialised. I am currently giving the finishing touches to the script. Only once we sign someone will I be able to comment on the casting.”

A source close to the development told the daily, “The actor was in touch with Matthan over the past several months as he was developing the script. The two were said to be co-producing the film. However, the economics of the project is not working out, which is why it hasn’t gone on floors yet. On his part, John has committed to other films. He is currently shooting for Anees Bazmee’s Pagalpanti. From July, he will start work on Rensil D’Silva’s yet-untitled drama revolving around bike racing.”

John Abraham’s spokesperson confirmed, “We were in discussion with John Matthan for Sarfarosh 2. But things didn’t work out. We wish the best for the project.”

John Abraham is currently busy with his film, Batla House. Last year, the actor shot for the film in Lucknow and Jamia Nagar, Delhi. Batla House reportedly revolves around DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav, who spearheaded the Batla House encounter. The encounter took place in Delhi between police officials and members of the terrorist group, Indian Mujahideen. The film is set to release on August 15, 2019. Apart from Batla House, John will also be seen in Pagalpanti and 1911.