Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz award on Wednesday, May 6. This makes him the fourth Pakistani cricketer to earn this prestigious civilian honor.
The award was presented by President Asif Ali Zardari during a ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr. With this recognition, Afridi joins Cricket icons like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Abdul Hafeez Kardar, who have also received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for their contributions to the country.
Watch Shahid Afridi receiving the award here –
Afridi’s career spanned over 20 years, making him one of Pakistan’s most significant white-ball cricketers. Renowned for his aggressive batting and ability to take wickets, he played 524 International matches across all formats.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Afridi is one of Pakistan’s most seasoned players, participating in 398 matches. He scored 8,064 runs, including six centuries and 39 half-centuries, while taking 395 wickets, solidifying his status as a top all-rounder.
A key highlight of Afridi’s career was the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 final against Sri Lanka at Lord’s. He scored an unbeaten 54 runs from 40 balls and took a wicket, leading Pakistan to its first T20 World Cup title.
In addition to his international success, Afridi had a prominent franchise career, playing in leagues such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), and Caribbean Premier League (CPL), becoming a leading T20 player of his time.
At 46, this latest honor reflects Afridi’s legendary career and his lasting influence on Pakistan cricket, inspiring many around the world.