Shahid Afridi receives Pakistan's second-highest civilian award for his services to national cricket team and contributions to international cricket.
Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistan captain and all-rounder, has been conferred with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan's second-highest civilian award, by President Asif Ali Zardari. The prestigious ceremony took place at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where Afridi was recognized for his long-standing services to the national cricket team. The award acknowledges his contributions to England's county cricket and his leadership role in the World Championship of Legends.
The honor is a testament to Afridi's exceptional career, which spans across all formats of the game. He has played 398 ODIs, scoring 8,064 runs, including 39 half-centuries and six centuries, while also claiming 395 wickets with nine five-wicket hauls. In the T20I format, Afridi featured in 99 matches, scoring 1,416 runs and taking 98 wickets. His vast experience in franchise cricket, representing teams in various leagues, has been instrumental in shaping his career.
Afridi's most notable achievement was guiding Pakistan to their historic 2009 T20 World Cup triumph. He was a key member of the squad that defeated Sri Lanka in the final, courtesy of his all-round performance. Afridi scored an unbeaten 54 off 40 deliveries, including two fours and two sixes, and also claimed one wicket. This achievement has been recognized by the President, who conferred the Hilal-e-Imtiaz award on Afridi during the ceremony.
The Hilal-e-Imtiaz award is a significant recognition of Afridi's contributions to Pakistan cricket and international cricket. His leadership role in the World Championship of Legends and his contributions to England's county cricket have been acknowledged by the President. Afridi's exceptional career has been marked by numerous achievements, and this award is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
The ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr was a prestigious event, where Afridi was honored for his services to Pakistan cricket. The President's decision to confer the Hilal-e-Imtiaz award on Afridi is a significant recognition of his achievements, and it is expected to inspire future generations of cricketers. Afridi's legacy continues to inspire cricket fans around the world, and this award is a fitting tribute to his exceptional career.
