The film would have starred him alongside his Dostana colleague John Abraham There has been some speculation about Abbas-Mustan's next, an ambitious remake of Tamil action flick Vettai, which was supposed to star the Dostana pair Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham. The film, which is about two brothers, would have been the 'pair's' first significant outing after their hit Dostana, save of course the sequel. However, Abhishek, who was slated to play the character of the elder sibling - a cop who takes the flak for his younger brother played by John - has walked out the project citing date issues. A source close to Abbas Mastan told this newspaper: "The film was mostly likely to start early this year and both Abhishek and John had been sounded out for the project. However, like all major projects, there were the starting niggles involving the final script and the exact choice of locations, that d erailed it temporarily." Abhishek recently had a meeting with the directors and expressed his inability to be a part of the film. The 'parting' was amicable, we are told.

It has been a while since one heard from Abhishek, who has not signed any films after Dhoom 3 or Dostana 2. We were thus curious to know about the new film that may have been the reason for the actor to excuse himself from the Vettai remake. Buzz is, Mani Ratnam has been talking to Abhishek for a new project. There are also reports that he is considering a film with OMG director Umesh Shukla. The source added: "Abhishek shared his concerns with Abbas-Mustan because they have had a good rapport since the making of Players. Though the film did not do well, they have been on good terms. The duo found his arguments valid." According to reports, the hunt is on to find a replacement for Abhishek. "It will be tough, considering his camaraderie with John which has always worked at the box office," said the source, adding, "It would be interesting to see who is willing and capable enough to step into his shoes."
Abbas Mustan remained unreachable.