Shahid Afridi, the former captain and legendary all-rounder of the Pakistan national cricket team, has been conferred with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the nation’s second-highest civilian honour. This prestigious award recognises his extensive contributions to the sport over a career spanning more than two decades. Afridi becomes the fifth cricketer in Pakistan’s history to receive this specific distinction, joining an elite group of sporting icons.
Presidential Investiture and Career Recognition
The award was presented by the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, during a formal ceremony held at the presidential palace, Aiwan-e-Sadr. The 46-year-old cricketer was cited for his pivotal role in Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup victory, as well as his performances in English County Cricket and the World Championship of Legends.
In addition to Afridi, Abdul Hafeez Kardar, Pakistan’s inaugural Test captain and a foundational figure in the nation’s cricketing history, was posthumously awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz. Kardar, who played 26 Test matches, is widely regarded as the principal architect of Pakistan’s early cricketing successes.
Statistical Overview of Shahid Afridi’s Career
Afridi’s international career is defined by his aggressive batting and effective leg-spin. Across 524 international appearances in all formats, his statistics remain amongst the most significant in the sport.
| Format | Matches | Runs scored | Wickets Taken | 50s / 100s |
| One Day International (ODI) | 398 | 8,064 | 395 | 39 / 6 |
| Twenty20 International (T20I) | 99 | 1,416 | 98 | 4 / 0 |
| Test Cricket | 27 | 1,716 | 48 | 8 / 5 |
| Career Total | 524 | 11,196 | 541 | 51 / 11 |
Elite Recipients of the Hilal-e-Imtiaz in Cricket
Shahid Afridi joins a select list of individuals who have shaped Pakistan’s global cricketing identity. The five cricketers to have received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz are:
Imran Khan
Wasim Akram
Waqar Younis
Abdul Hafeez Kardar (Posthumous)
Shahid Afridi
Global Franchise Footprint
Beyond the international arena, Afridi was a highly sought-after figure in domestic leagues worldwide. His participation across various global franchises cemented his status as a global ambassador for the sport. His franchise history includes:
PSL (Pakistan Super League)
BPL (Bangladesh Premier League)
IPL (Indian Premier League – Inaugural season)
Big Bash League (Australia)
CPL (Caribbean Premier League)
LPL (Lanka Premier League)
Champions League T20
Reaction to the Honour
Reflecting on the achievement via his official account on X (formerly Twitter), Afridi expressed immense pride in receiving the honour from the President. He remarked that the award was not merely a personal milestone but a tribute to the entire Pakistani nation. He extended his gratitude to his supporters, stating that their love and prayers had been instrumental in his journey. Afridi further dedicated the medal to the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives in the protection of the motherland.