The legendary Pakistani cricketer, Shahid Afridi has been appointed the new tournament ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
The former Pakistan cricket team captain joins an impressive line-up of ambassadors, including Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, and Usain Bolt.
Shahid Afridi expressed his elation at joining the upcoming edition as a tournament ambassador and said, “The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is an event that is very close to my heart. From being Player of the Tournament in the inaugural edition to lifting the trophy in 2009, some of my favourite career highlights have come from competing on this stage.
“T20 World Cups have gone from strength to strength in recent years, and I’m thrilled to be part of this edition, where we will see more teams, more matches and even more drama than ever before.
“I am particularly excited to witness the India v Pakistan fixture on 9 June. It is one of the great rivalries in sport and New York will be a fitting stage for this unmissable encounter between two great teams.”
Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager – Marketing and Communications, added, “Shahid competed in six ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, two of which as captain and delivering a Player of the Match performance when winning the trophy in 2009, so who better to join our all-star Ambassador team. He’s a fan favourite around the world and alongside Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle and eight-time Olympic gold-medallist Usain Bolt, will be bringing fans closer to the event ahead of what is set to be the biggest T20 World Cup ever.”
Afridi’s explosive batting and skilful leg spin are forever linked to Pakistan’s most unforgettable T20 World Cup moments.
The 47-year-old played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s journey to the finals in the 2007 edition and led them to a thrilling victory in 2009. His performances were clutch in both tournaments. In 2007, he earned Player of the Tournament honours despite Pakistan falling short against India in the final. He redeemed himself two years later, clinching Player of the Match awards in the semi-final against South Africa and the final against Sri Lanka with a dominant all-round performance.
The multinational spectacle kicks off on June 2, with co-hosts USA taking on Canada at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.