There is one very interesting thing about Pakistan’s national cricketers that almost all of them have a nickname. Not only cricketers call each other by these names but they are also commonly known by cricket fans.
For example, while Pakistan captain Babar Azam is nicknamed “Bobby” and all-rounder Shadab Khan is nicknamed “Shady”, Pakistani power hitter Iftikhar Ahmed is known as “Chachu”.
The 32-year-old batsman initially got the name because of his looks as he looked older than his age. However, fans now chant the name to cheer the cricketer whenever he steps on the field or hits a boundary.
When asked how he felt about being called “chachu”, Iftikhar said that if he were to be honest, he felt bad for the first time.
“But now, I really enjoy it when the crowd [calls names] like that,” he said.
The right-handed batsman said he felt the same sentiment as former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi – also a power hitter – who was called “Boom Boom” at the ground.
“I see the crowd [similarly active] for me, so I feel happy,” Iftikhar said.
He added that being called “chachu” was not a bad thing or an insult, so he enjoyed it.
“This crowd supports me and believe me, wherever I go, I get a lot of love,” the cricketer said.
Also, captain Babar Azam said during a press conference after the match that he sometimes felt embarrassed that Iftikhar was named after “one word” he said.
However, he said he felt it was good for Iftikhar as people were happy about his good performances in T20Is and ODIs.
