In recognition of exceptional contributions to sports and for bringing pride to the nation, the Government of Pakistan has announced that a number of celebrated athletes and sports personalities will be honored with prestigious civil awards. The announcement highlights the country’s commitment to acknowledging the tireless efforts of its sportsmen and women who have dedicated their lives to excellence and raised Pakistan’s flag high on the international stage.

Honoring Heroes of Sports

According to official details, the government has decided to confer civil awards on ten distinguished figures from various fields of sports. Among the recipients are cricketing legend and former national captain Shahid Khan Afridi, mountaineer Shehroze Kashif, late equestrian Malik Muhammad Atta, women’s cricket pioneer Sana Mir, and Paralympic athlete Haider Ali.

The awards will be presented on 23rd March 2026, Pakistan Day, during a national ceremony that traditionally recognizes outstanding citizens for their services in different sectors. This year, a strong emphasis has been placed on honoring athletes who have not only excelled in their respective sports but also acted as ambassadors of Pakistan to the world.

Shahid Afridi – A Cricketing Legend

Leading the list is former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi, one of the most popular and charismatic cricketers in the history of the game. Known globally as “Boom Boom Afridi” for his aggressive batting style, he is being conferred with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the second-highest civilian award in Pakistan.

Afridi’s illustrious career spanned over two decades, during which he represented Pakistan in more than 500 international matches. He was instrumental in many memorable victories, including Pakistan’s 2009 ICC World T20 triumph, where he played a match-winning role in the final. Beyond cricket, Afridi has contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts through his Shahid Afridi Foundation, which works in education, health, and community development. His award not only recognizes his cricketing achievements but also his broader services to the nation.

Shehroze Kashif – The Young Mountaineer

Also receiving the Hilal-e-Imtiaz is Shehroze Kashif, Pakistan’s rising star in mountaineering. At a very young age, Kashif has achieved feats that many only dream of, including becoming the youngest Pakistani to scale Mount Everest and K2. His fearless spirit and determination have made him a source of inspiration for youth across Pakistan.

By honoring Kashif, the government is acknowledging not only his personal achievements but also the growing importance of adventure sports in showcasing Pakistan’s natural beauty and resilience on a global level.

Malik Muhammad Atta – Remembering an Equestrian Legend

Another Hilal-e-Imtiaz recipient is the late Malik Muhammad Atta, a legendary figure in the sport of tent pegging and equestrian competitions. Malik Atta, who passed away in recent years, was a pioneer who brought recognition to Pakistan in international equestrian circles. He famously popularized the traditional sport and represented Pakistan globally, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire rural sports enthusiasts. This posthumous award pays tribute to his lifelong dedication to keeping the cultural heritage of equestrian sports alive.

Sana Mir – Trailblazer of Women’s Cricket

In women’s sports, former Pakistan women’s cricket captain Sana Mir has been honored with the Sitara-e-Imtiaz. She remains one of the most influential female athletes in the country’s history. Sana Mir captained Pakistan in more than 130 international matches, leading the team to significant victories, including two Asian Games gold medals in cricket.

Her contribution goes beyond her on-field success. Sana Mir has been a vocal advocate for women’s participation in sports and has served as a role model for countless young girls who dream of pursuing careers in cricket and other disciplines. The award recognizes both her leadership and her role in transforming the perception of women’s cricket in Pakistan.

Haider Ali – Paralympic Champion

Paralympic star Haider Ali, who won Pakistan’s first-ever gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics in discus throw, has also been awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz. Haider’s achievement was a historic moment for Pakistan’s sporting history, as it brought global recognition to the nation in the Paralympic movement.

Haider Ali’s determination, despite physical challenges, symbolizes resilience and courage. His award is a message of encouragement for athletes with disabilities, showing that their achievements are equally valued and celebrated by the nation.

Other Awardees Across Sporting Fields

The list also includes several other prominent athletes who have excelled in their respective disciplines:

• Hamza Khan (Squash): Awarded Tamgha-e-Imtiaz for his accomplishments in squash. He is seen as a torchbearer for Pakistan’s return to glory in a sport once dominated by legends like Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan.
• Mohsin Nawaz (Shooting): Recognized with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz for his consistent performances in national and international shooting competitions.
• Rashid Malik (Tennis): Honored with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz for his long-standing services to tennis in Pakistan, both as a player and later as a mentor.
• Shahzaib Rind (Karate): Conferred with the Pride of Performance Award for his excellence in martial arts. His achievements have helped place Pakistan on the global karate map.
• Muhammad Sajjad (Kabaddi): Also receiving the Pride of Performance Award, Sajjad has been instrumental in Pakistan’s international kabaddi success, particularly in South Asia.

A Celebration of Sporting Excellence

The announcement of these awards reflects the government’s acknowledgment of sports as a critical element of national pride. By recognizing athletes from a variety of sports—cricket, mountaineering, equestrianism, women’s cricket, Paralympic athletics, squash, shooting, tennis, karate, and kabaddi—the government has sent a strong message about the importance of diversity in Pakistan’s sporting achievements.

This year’s recipients represent both tradition and modernity: from Malik Atta’s equestrian heritage to Shehroze Kashif’s modern mountaineering feats; from Shahid Afridi’s explosive cricketing legacy to Haider Ali’s Paralympic glory. Together, they embody the spirit of resilience, dedication, and patriotism.

Conclusion

On Pakistan Day 2026, these sports heroes will receive their awards in a prestigious ceremony attended by national leaders, dignitaries, and fellow citizens. The occasion will not only celebrate their individual achievements but also highlight Pakistan’s growing stature in international sports.

By awarding civil honors to Shahid Afridi and his fellow athletes, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to valuing sports as a means of national unity and pride. Their journeys serve as inspiration for millions of young Pakistanis, reminding the nation that with talent, hard work, and dedication, global recognition is always within reach.