One of the most iconic imagery to come out of the ICC World Cup 2019 wasn’t of the players on the field, it was of a lady – jubilant and exuberant; Charulata Patel, the super fan of the Men in Blue, supported Team India with the enthusiasm only an ardent cricket fan sports! The 87 year old soon became the embodiment of a true fan!
Soon after being noticed and trending on Twitter, Virat Kohli even asked her to attend all of India’s matches in the world cup – calling her “one of the most passionate and dedicated fans” he has ever seen.
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. 🙏🏼😇 pic.twitter.com/XHII8zw1F2
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 2, 2019
But now, the stands will be bereft of this passionate fan, as Charulata Patel has passed away. BCCI took to twitter to give their condolences, announcing this heartbreaking news to every cricket-lover.
#TeamIndia's Superfan Charulata Patel ji will always remain in our hearts and her passion for the game will keep motivating us.
May her soul rest in peace pic.twitter.com/WUTQPWCpJR
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 16, 2020
Echoing the sentiments in tweet, we truly believe that every fan of Team India will remember Charulata Patel with only warm memories. May her soul rest in peace.