Next Star Trek film could have a role for Shatner

William Shatner could reprise the role of Captain Kirk in the 'Star Trek' sequel.

The script for the eagerly-awaited new film - written by Roberto Orci, JD Payne and Patrick McKay - includes a part for the character Shatner, 83, played in the 1960s TV series.

The storyline includes a meeting between two of the show's most famous characters, Captain Kirk and Leonard Nimoy's Spock, BadassDigest.com reports.

It's said the scene is "plot-driven and integral enough that it might just survive any future revisions".

The proposed scene will be a landmark moment for fans of the franchise, because Shatner and Nimoy haven't appeared together in a 'Star Trek' film since 'Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country', in 1991.

What's more, Shatner has not starred as Kirk since 1994's 'Star Trek: Generations'.

The speculation comes shortly after Zachary Quinto - who plays the role of Spock - said he believes 'Star Trek 3' will begin shooting within the next six months.

When asked how close the cast are to filming 'Star Trek 3', the 37-year-old actor told NBC: "I think it's on the horizon.

"Things are rumbling, so I have a feeling that we will be in production sometime in the next six months."

The latest 'Star Trek' film is set to hit cinema screens in 2016.