One of cricket’s most iconic and recognisable faces is set to bid farewell to the stands. Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, the legendary Pakistani superfan affectionately known around the world as Chacha Cricket, has confirmed that the upcoming home ODI series against Australia will mark his last live appearance at a cricket stadium.
The 76-year-old veteran supporter revealed that age-related health concerns have forced him to make the difficult decision to step away from stadium appearances, bringing an end to nearly four decades of unwavering dedication to Pakistan cricket.
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The three-match ODI series against Australia, scheduled from May 30 to June 4, will serve as his farewell. Pakistan will host the opening ODI in Rawalpindi, while the final two matches will be played at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
In an emotional message posted on his official X account, Chacha Cricket appealed directly to Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the PCB management to make his last appearance at Gaddafi Stadium on June 4 a truly memorable occasion.
“4th June Pak vs Aus I’ll be witnessing my last ODI in Qaddafi. I request Chairman Mr Mohsin Naqvi and PCB management to make it a memorable day and end on high note. Sent email to Manager Operations and Events. Waiting for the positive response from PCB. Pakistan Zindabad,” he wrote.
4th June Pak Vs Aus I'll be witnessing my last ODI in Qaddafi. I request Chairman Mr Mohsin Naqvi and PCB management to make it a memorable day and end on high note. Sent email to Manager Operations and Events. Waiting for the positive response from PCB. Pakistan Zindabad pic.twitter.com/Nn3L1rCIA6
— Chacha Cricket (@chachacricketpk) May 25, 2026
In his heartfelt message, Chacha Cricket expressed deep gratitude for decades of love and support from fans and the cricketing community, and called for a fitting tribute at the historic venue where he has cheered Pakistan on for generations.
A Journey That Began in the 1980s
Chacha Cricket’s incredible journey as Pakistan’s most devoted supporter began in the 1980s in Sharjah, where Pakistan frequently hosted their home series at the time. He later became an officially recognised mascot of the PCB in 1996, cementing his place as one of the most beloved figures in Pakistani cricket culture.
READ: Pakistan vs Australia ODI Series: H2H, Squads, Schedule & How to Watch
Born on October 8, 1949, in Sialkot, Chaudhry Abdul Jalil is instantly recognisable in the stands by his trademark bright green kurta, long white beard, and a distinctive white cap adorned with a sparkling star and crescent. His vibrant presence and infectious energy have made him a permanent fixture in the memories of cricket fans across generations.
His dedication to Pakistan cricket has come at great personal cost. He famously gave up a well-paying job in the United Arab Emirates and is reported to have sold personal belongings over the years to fund his travels and continue supporting Pakistan cricket across the globe.
A Symbol of Passion and Loyalty
Over the course of his remarkable journey, Chacha Cricket has transcended the boundaries of a mere fan to become a true symbol of passion, loyalty and love for Pakistan cricket. Regardless of results on the field, he has consistently been seen energising crowds, lifting team spirits and bringing joy to fellow supporters in the stands.
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His farewell at Gaddafi Stadium on June 4 is expected to be an emotionally charged occasion, with cricket fans across Pakistan hoping the PCB gives this legendary figure the grand send-off he truly deserves after decades of selfless service to the game.
