KARACHI: Pakistan’s most celebrated and passionate cricket super fan, Abdul Jalil—famously known worldwide as ‘Chacha Cricket’—has officially announced his retirement from cheering for the national team from the stadium stands.
The 77-year-old iconic figure will witness his final live match on home soil on June 4, during the third One Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
A Fitting Tribute from PCB
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) paid a glowing tribute to Abdul Jalil, acknowledging him not just as a fan, but as a symbol of Pakistan cricket’s enduring spirit.
In a heartfelt social media post, the PCB expressed deep gratitude for his lifelong passion, loyalty, and the countless memories he created, stating that he transcended the definition of a regular supporter to become an institution in himself.
The Journey: From Lahore 1968 to Global Stardom
Chacha Cricket’s journey began nearly six decades ago when he watched his first international match in the 1968-69 season during Pakistan’s Test against England in Lahore. He later became a permanent, vibrant fixture at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, rallying support for Pakistan during the golden era of cricket in the UAE. Dressed in his trademark green shalwar kameez and matching cap, he shot to global fame during the 1999 ICC Cricket World Cup in England.
Over his historic journey, Abdul Jalil achieved his personal milestone of cheering for Pakistan in 500 international matches. He was an eyewitness to some of Pakistan’s greatest cricketing triumphs, including Javed Miandad’s historic last-ball six in Sharjah (1986) and Pakistan’s iconic Champions Trophy victory against India in 2017.
Future Plans: A Cricket Museum
While the national team’s recent slumps left him visibly disappointed, Abdul Jalil remains hopeful for the future of Pakistan cricket.
Sharing his post-retirement plans, he revealed that he intends to establish a restaurant and a dedicated cricket museum near Sialkot. The museum will house his vast personal collection of cricket memorabilia, historic photographs, and souvenirs collected over a lifetime of devotion to the sport.
