ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been conferred the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the country’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of his outstanding services in the field of sports.
The award was presented by Asif Ali Zardari during a prestigious ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Afridi was honoured for his key role in guiding Pakistan to their historic 2009 ICC T20 World Cup triumph.
The recognition also highlighted Afridi’s contributions in English county cricket and his leadership role in the World Championship of Legends.
Following the ceremony, Afridi posted on X that receiving the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz from the president was an honour, stating that it represented not only his personal achievement but also the pride of the entire Pakistani nation.
He further said the award reflected the love, prayers and support he had received from the public throughout his cricketing career.
Afridi dedicated the honour to Pakistan’s martyrs, adding that it was also in recognition of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
He concluded by praying for Pakistan’s continued safety, peace and prosperity.
The 46-year-old has made significant contributions to Pakistan cricket across all formats, playing 398 ODIs and scoring 8,064 runs, including 39 half-centuries and six centuries, while also taking 395 wickets with nine five-wicket hauls.
In T20 Internationals, the right-handed all-rounder featured in 99 matches, scoring 1,416 runs and claiming 98 wickets.
Afridi also had extensive franchise cricket experience, representing teams in the Pakistan Super League, Lanka Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Champions League Twenty20, Big Bash League and Indian Premier League.
He was a key member of Pakistan’s squad that won the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, defeating the Sri Lanka national cricket team in the final with Afridi playing a crucial all-round role.
He scored an unbeaten 54 off 40 deliveries, hitting two fours and two sixes, and also took one wicket in the final to help secure the historic victory.