Pakistan's hard-hitting batter Iftikhar Ahmed said he enjoys it when fans call him 'Chachu'.
Iftikhar played a fighting 94-run knock during the last ODI against New Zealand last Sunday. Unfortunately, Pakistan couldn't complete 300-run chase and lost the match by 47 runs.
Iftikhar, who replaced injured Haris Sohail in the squad for last three ODIs in Karachi, stood out as a dominant performer for Pakistan in the last outing.
He stole the major limelight during the last match including those vibrant chants of 'chachu' as soon as he entered the ground for batting.
"To be honest, the first time I felt bad when people chanted 'chachu'," responded Iftikhar during an interview with Geo News.
"But now, I really enjoy it. I enjoy it when people chant because it is not something wrong or abusive. People enjoy it, and so do I," said the right-handed batter.
Iftikhar said he feels proud when people support him. "I saw how people used to chant for Shahid Bhai [Shahid Afridi]. After him, I feel blessed that people do this for me," he concluded.
Pakistan beat New Zealand in last ODI
Iftikhar Ahmed's effort went in vain as New Zealand bowlers were good enough to bowl out Pakistan for 252 runs and win the fifth and last ODI by 47 runs.
The right-handed batter made solid effort to help Pakistan chase down 300 runs but wickets falling after regular intervals made it difficult for the home side. He scored 94 not out including eight boundaries and two maximums.
Agha Salman also remained prominent with the bat as he scored 57 runs. He also partnered strongly with Iftikhar to give hope of survival for Pakistan. They both notched up a 97-run partnership.
For New Zealand, Henry Shipley and Rachin Ravindra bagged three wickets each. After this defeat, Pakistan also lost their first position in the ICC ODI rankings.