LAHORE: Pakistan cricket's most recognizable and passionate supporter, popularly known as "Chacha Cricket," has announced his retirement from attending matches after decades of cheering for the national team.
The 77-year-old fan, whose real name is Abdul Jalil, will watch his final match in Pakistan from the stands when Pakistan take on Australia in the third One-Day International in Lahore on June 4.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) paid tribute to Chacha Cricket in a heartfelt social media post, describing him as more than just a fan and calling him a symbol of unwavering support for Pakistan cricket.
https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/2061701948794081644
The board thanked him for a lifetime of passion, loyalty and cherished memories associated with the national team.
Chacha Cricket first attended a Test match between Pakistan and England in Lahore during the 1968-69 season. He later became a familiar figure at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where he gained fame as one of Pakistan's most devoted supporters.
Dressed in his trademark green outfit and cap, he achieved international recognition during the 1999 Cricket World Cup in England, where he enthusiastically backed the Pakistani team throughout the tournament.
Abdul Jalil said he now plans to establish a restaurant and museum near Sialkot to showcase his collection of cricket memorabilia and memories gathered over the years.
He said he had fulfilled his goal of supporting Pakistan in 500 matches.
Over the decades, Chacha Cricket witnessed many of Pakistan's most memorable moments, including Javed Miandad's famous last-ball six against India in 1986 and Pakistan's triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 Final.
More read, Chacha Cricket is alive and Healthy, News of his death are Fake
While he has expressed disappointment with the national team's recent performances, Chacha Cricket remains hopeful that Pakistan cricket will once again return to winning ways.
