'Chacha Cricket' to make final appearance at third ODI at Gaddafi Stadium

Published 03 Jun, 2026 11:32am 2 min read
Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, widely known as 'Chacha Cricket'. -- File photo
Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, widely known as 'Chacha Cricket'. -- File photo

Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, widely known as “Chacha Cricket,” will mark the conclusion of his decades-long journey as Pakistan cricket’s most iconic supporter during the final ODI against Australia at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

The legendary superfan, who has been a routine fixture at Pakistan matches since the 1980s, will take his final bow in front of home crowds after nearly four decades of unwavering support.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) paid tribute to ‘Chacha Cricket’ and invited him as a special guest during the second ODI between Pakistan and Australia in Lahore.

A farewell ceremony was held on the occasion, where ‘Chacha Cricket’ also cut a celebratory cake in recognition of his long-standing association with Pakistan cricket.

Chacha Cricket supported the national team from 1969 to 2026, attending nearly 500 international matches over the course of his lifelong journey as one of Pakistan cricket’s most iconic fans.

Born in Sialkot on October 8, 1949, ‘Chacha Cricket’ first gained prominence during Pakistan’s high-profile matches in Sharjah and officially became a mascot for the national team in 1996.

Dressed in his trademark green kurta, sporting a long white beard and a star-and-crescent cap, ‘Chacha Cricket’ has followed the team across Pakistan and around the world, often making personal sacrifices to do so.

Media reports claimed ‘Chacha Cricket’ gave up a well-paid job in the UAE and even sold his personal belongings just to follow the Pakistan cricket team across the globe, a testament to his extraordinary passion and devotion.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has organised a commemorative ceremony in Lahore to acknowledge ‘Chacha Cricket’s’ enduring presence in Pakistan cricket.

For generations of supporters, ‘Chacha Cricket’ has represented the spirit of the stands — reminding players and fans alike that the heartbeat of cricket often lies as much in the crowd as on the field.

Thursday’s match will serve as both a celebration of his singular journey and a moment for the nation’s fans to say goodbye to one of cricket’s most beloved figures.

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