Pakistan’s Biggest Cricket Fan Calls It Quits
Abdul Jalil, famously known as Chacha Cricket, is among the most recognisable fans in the stadiums when Pakistan is playing any international match. Having started this journey at 19 in 1968/69, when England travelled to Lahore, it has been almost 60 years that Jalil has passionately rallied behind his team.
Pakistan’s 12th man in the stands
At a very young age, Chacha Cricket had decided to show his love and support for Pakistan with this unique idea of travelling with the team wherever it is possible for him. According to his interview with ESPNcricinfo, he had a target of 500 international matches in mind, where he would cheer for Pakistan and that it had been achieved.
Through the years, he has seen some of the most epic matches involving Pakistan and their domination in the 90s, which he will fondly remember for the rest of his life. However, the recent results against India have also been a major disappointment for him. He witnessed Pakistan’s three consecutive defeats to India in the Asia Cup last year and was present in Mohali to witness the semi-final loss against India in the World Cup 2011.
Chacha Cricket announces retirement
On Saturday, Pakistan’s ODI series against Australia is set to kick off in Rawalpindi. The three-match series will then move to Lahore for the final two matches. Chacha has spoken of being content with his journey and thinks it is time to retire now. This will be his final home series, followed by one last tour of England later in August and September.
Chacha reveals his future plans, having spent almost 60 years on the road for the love of the game. He aspires to open a cricket-themed restaurant and do some welfare work once the upcoming three Tests against England are done. He will display all the memorabilia he has gathered over the years at the museum.
- Chacha Cricket has attended over 500 international matches in his career.
- He has traveled around the world to support Pakistan in various cricket tournaments.
- He plans to open a cricket-themed restaurant and engage in welfare work after his retirement.
