Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has been brought on as the brand ambassador for the T20 World Cup 2024. The ex-all-rounder joins the ranks of elite athletes such as Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, and Usain Bolt as ambassadors for the event, which kicks off on June 1.
A true T20 specialist, the right-handed batsman has participated in six T20 World Cup editions, captaining Pakistan in two of them. At 47, he was named Player of the Tournament in the inaugural 2007 edition and played a crucial role in Pakistan’s title win in 2009.
Speaking about his appointment as ambassador, the former captain noted that some of his most memorable career moments have occurred in T20 World Cups. He also expressed enthusiasm for the India vs Pakistan match on June 9. Afridi said, as quoted by the ICC:
“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.”
The former chief selector of the men’s team is also the second-highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history. The retired cricketer has taken 39 wickets in 34 matches, with an average of 23.25.
“He’s a fan favorite around the world” – ICC General Manager views on Shahid Afridi
Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager, remarked that few ambassadors could be better than Afridi for the Men’s T20 World Cup, enhancing fan engagement with the event. She stated:
“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.”
Pakistan will kick off their 2024 campaign against the USA on June 6th.
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