Shahid Afridi conferred Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award Hilal-e-Imtiaz, joins elite list of cricketing icons

Published - 14 May 2026, 11:04 IST | Updated - 14 May 2026, 11:04 IST

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi was honoured with the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz on Wednesday, May 6, becoming just the fourth Pakistani cricketer to receive Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award.

The recognition was presented by Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari during an official ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr. With the honour, the all-rounder joined an elite group of Pakistan cricket legends including former captain Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Abdul Hafeez Kardar, who have previously been awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for their services to the country.

Shahid Afridi receives Hilal Imtiaz

Afridi’s illustrious international career spanned over two decades, during which he established himself as one of Pakistan’s most impactful white-ball cricketers. Known for his aggressive batting and wicket-taking ability, the former all-rounder represented Pakistan in 524 international matches across formats.

In ODI cricket, Afridi remains among Pakistan’s most experienced players, having featured in 398 matches. He amassed 8,064 runs with the bat, including six centuries and 39 half-centuries, while also scalping 395 wickets with the ball, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s finest all-rounders.

One of the defining moments of Afridi’s career came during the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 final against Sri Lanka at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Delivering on the biggest stage, Afridi played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 54 off 40 deliveries and also picked up a wicket, guiding Pakistan to their maiden T20 World Cup title.

Apart from his success with the national side, Afridi also enjoyed a celebrated franchise career around the globe. He featured in tournaments such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL) and Caribbean Premier League (CPL), becoming one of the most recognised T20 stars of his era.

At 46, Afridi’s latest recognition stands as a tribute to a legendary career that left a lasting impact on Pakistan cricket and inspired generations of fans worldwide.