Sudhir Kumar Chaudary, the skinny guy painted in the tricolor and No 10 is very well known among the cricket fans. He is the most dedicated fan of the master blaster Sachin Tendulkar and has been in the gallery whenever India played.
Despite Sachin’s retirement, he continues to support team India, being the leader of the fan brigade. Sudhir Kumar faced a small hurdle in getting the visa to the UK, where Champions Trophy is held. However, the legend himself came to solve his fan’s issue. Sachin Tendulkar wrote a referral letter to the visa office citing the individual’s importance. Eventually, Sudhir had the visa granted in three days. Excerpts from Tendulkar’s letter:
“I am writing to confirm that Mr. Sudhir Kumar has been an ardent supporter of the Indian cricket team and has become an unofficial mascot of the team due to his enthusiasm”.
“It is unfortunate that someone from a modest background, who is supporting Indian cricket without accepting any help from the players, is made to face numerous hardships to enable him to follow his passion”.
“I hope on my behalf you will extend your co-operation to Sudhir Kumar as required by him,” Tendulkar concluded.