New Delhi:
Charulatha Patel, the 87-year-old ‘superfan’ who grabbed the attention of thousands during India’s win against Bangladesh in Edgbaston, is back. This time, she was seen cheering for the Indian cricket team during their final league game against Sri Lanka in Leeds. The official Twitter handle of the BCCI said, "Hello Charulata ji. #TeamIndia captain @imVkohli promised her tickets and our superfan is here with us is in Leeds." Apart from the official tweet, the BCCI also attached a personal note signed from skipper Virat Kohli. They wrote, "Dear Charulataji, it is so inspiring to see your love and passion for our team and I hope you enjoy the games with your family. Lots of love and regards, Virat'.
During India's game against Bangladesh in Edgbaston, the limelight was taken away by the 87-year-old Charulatha Patel, who came for the game on a wheelchair with her granddaughter. Her enthusiasm grabbed the attention of the official broadcaster and she featured regularly in the game where she was seen blowing her trumpet, cheering for the men in blue.
Also would like to thank all our fans for all the love & support & especially Charulata Patel ji. She's 87 and probably one of the most passionate & dedicated fans I've ever seen. Age is just a number, passion takes you leaps & bounds. With her blessings, on to the next one. ðŸ™ðŸ¼ðŸ˜‡ pic.twitter.com/XHII8zw1F2
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 2, 2019
Hello Charulata ji. #TeamIndia captain @imVkohli promised her tickets and our superfan is here with us is in Leeds.😊 #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/lKqbVllLjc
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 6, 2019
I don’t know about the Man of the Match, but we have an undisputed winner of the Fan of the Match 🙌💖 #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/DSqQZkn3bS
— Gaurav Kapur (@gauravkapur) July 2, 2019
Donning a tricolour scarf, and with a bright yellow vuvuzela and a flag in hand, Charulatha was spotted celebrating every run. So much, that it caught the attention of Sourav Ganguly in the commentary box. The former captain helped identify the fan for those watching the game. When the official the ICC World Cup 2019 went to her, she said, "when Kapil paaji won the World Cup in 1983, I was there as well."
"Whenever Indian cricketers come over (to England) to play, I pray for them. I believe in Lord Ganesh and I have full faith that India will win. I bless the players, I hope they take care, do well and give us a chance to win," she further added.
India will top the group if they win against Sri Lanka and Australia lose their last encounter against South Africa. However, if Australia wins, then they will take on New Zealand in the semi-final while India will take on England.
