Meet the new sensation #ThatPakistaniFan Rizla Rehan

Meet the new sensation, fan of Pakistani cricket much known as #ThatPakistaniFan, Rizla Rehan who went viral in Asia Cup 2018 as she was spotted cheering for her team and has been the hot spot of Cameras in the cricket stadiums since.

Rizla Rehan is a philanthropist and a strong believer in the power of sports, female empowerment, self-help and goodwill for all. Before becoming a goodwill ambassador, Rizla had adopted several children and established a charitable trust in Pakistan. She has also spent four years building a leading elementary school in Islamabad and a free school for the underprivileged. Rizla enjoys helping people and doing good. Her greatest wish is to dedicate her time and efforts in helping make the world a better place.

Tell us about #ThatPakistaniFan Rizla Rehan?
- I’m from Karachi but I’ve been living in Dubai for the last 12 years, I spend most of my time between Dubai and Islamabad. I run a small charity providing education for underprivileged children in Pakistan as well as this I have adopted a few girls who I take complete care of. I spend my time supporting and working with my own charities along with helping other charities such as Deaf reach and Special Olympics Pakistan as well as other causes.

When and how did you first become interested in sports/cricket?
- Growing up I was always quite a sporty person, growing up I played a few different sports for example, badminton and volleyball. Having seen my family watch cricket at home from a young age I started to watch it with them and that’s how my interest in cricket began.

Who is your favorite Pakistani cricketer, till date & why?
- Shahid Afridi – Because every time he came to the pitch as a batsmen or as a bowler he put a sense of hope into everyone watching and he was a pivotal part for the team for such a long time.

Your favorite Sport apart from Cricket?
- I enjoy athletics particularly sprinting as well as field hockey.

What’s one player you cannot stand in any sport?
- No-one, I believe anyone who can reach the level of becoming a professional athlete deserves a lot of respect and admiration.

Finish this sentence: Cricket for Rizla Rehan is ____________
- Cricket for Rizla Rehan is an enjoyable hobby to watch and support. I believe it provides a great platform to bring people from around the world together as we watch our teams and countries play together.

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Snapchat? What’s your pick when it comes to social media?
- Facebook and Instagram have to be my picks – I feel these platforms give me the best opportunity to interact with everyone.

First word that comes to your mind when you hear the names?

Shahid Afridi? > Boom Boom

Umar Akmal? > Talented

Sarfraz Ahmed? > Team player

Waseem Akram? > Legend

Virat Kohli? > Record breaker

What’s your favorite sports memory of all time?
- Winning the cricket world cup of course!

Fans of #ThatPakistaniFan would like to know, where they would see her next?
- They can keep up with me on my Instagram and facebook pages – I will be in Pakistan to support Deaf Reach as well the Special Olympics Pakistan team. Other than that I’m sure you’ll see me supporting Pakistan in our upcoming matches.