tested with Candice Bergen (qv)  for the part of Benjamin Braddock but was finally rejected by  director Mike Nichols because Nichols did not believe Redford could  persuasively project the underdog qualities necessary to the role.  When he told this to Redford, the actor asked Nichols what he meant.  "Well, lets put it this way," said Nichols, "Have you ever struck  out with a girl?" "What do you mean?" asked Redford. "Thats  precisely my point," said Nichols.