Boeing "Delivery Pilot"? I thought the airlines themselves take deliveries of their aircraft flown by their own pilots. At least that is what AI and Jet do.
I doubt AI has officially canceled the order. The Govt is going to make a final decision at the end of the month. Management has told the Govt that the 787s are essential for AI as they do not have any medium range aircraft in the fleet. There were a lot of speculations about reducing the number to 14 etc and also a sale and lease back for which they even have leasing companies shortlisted.
Any news regarding AI spreads like wild fire in India. And if what your friend says is true then it should come out in the media in the next few hours.