Meet MS Dhoni's superfan from Pakistan
In India's Sudhir Chaudhary and Pakistan's 'Chacha Cricket' Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, we have the most staunch supporters of the two cricketing arch rivals. But Mohammad Bashir is completely different from both of them as he makes sure he is present to cheer for both teams during India-Pakistan matches.
The reason for Bashir to support India is simple; he is a huge fan of Indian skipper MS Dhoni. The 60-year old, who has been a regular face during matches between the neighbours, fought ill health to make it to their Asia Cup T20I encounter.
Speaking to The Times of India, Mohammad Bashir said, "Just a week before I left home, I suffered my fourth heart attack - a mild one - and was advised against travelling. But I wouldn't have missed the opportunity to watch my favourite cricketer MS Dhoni play against my countrymen (Pakistan). So I took the flight and came here."
Bashir was born in Karachi and is currently settled in Chicago, where he runs his own restaurant. The Pakistani had his perfect 'fan moment' when Dhoni waved at him while he was walking in for practice.
"I had a chance to meet Dhoni a few days ago and he promised to get me tickets for the India-Pakistan clash at the World T20 next month," said Mohammad Bashir on his most recent encounter with the great Indian limited-over captain.
On being questioned about whether his wife was annoyed with him travelling despite his health troubles, Bashir replied, "I promised her I would take medicines on time. Plus, I know she wants to see me happy. I can't be happier than to see India and Pakistan fight it out. Irrespective of who wins, my love will always be there for both the teams."
While Mohammad Bashir may not be too pleased about Pakistan's loss yesterday, he would have surely enjoyed the fact that his hero, MS Dhoni, scored the winning runs for India.