Legendary Pakistan cricketer Shahid Khan Afridi received the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award, from President Asif Ali Zardari at Awan-e-Sadar in Islamabad. The emotional ceremony recognised his outstanding services to cricket and his contributions to society through humanitarian work.
Known worldwide as “Boom Boom”, Afridi entertained fans for nearly 20 years with his explosive batting and sharp leg-spin bowling. He played 27 Test matches, 398 ODIs, and 99 T20Is, scoring over 11,000 international runs and taking 541 wickets. He famously hit the fastest ODI century off just 37 balls and led Pakistan to victory in the 2009 ICC T20 World Cup.
Beyond cricket, Afridi has been widely praised for his social work. Through the Shahid Afridi Foundation, he has built schools, hospitals, and clinics, especially for poor communities and flood victims. His charity efforts have helped thousands across Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari presented the award in recognition of Afridi’s services to sports and the nation. Senior government officials, cricket legends, and family members attended the ceremony.
Afridi’s fans and the cricket community have welcomed the honour, calling it a well-deserved recognition for one of Pakistan’s most loved sporting icons.
