Pakistan Honors Top Sports Heroes with Prestigious National Awards

The Government of Pakistan has announced the highest national awards for outstanding athletes in multiple sports.

Former cricket captain Shahid Afridi leads the list of award recipients. The announcement celebrates athletes who have brought pride to the nation with their exceptional performances. This recognition is part of the annual Independence Day honours.

Every year, on August 14, the government releases a list of people honoured in different fields, including sports. This year’s list features athletes from cricket, mountaineering, equestrian sports, athletics, squash, shooting, tennis, karate, and kabaddi. The awards highlight their dedication and contribution to Pakistan’s sporting achievements.

Shahid Afridi will receive the Sitara-e-Imtiaz for his cricket career. Mountaineer Shehroze Kashif will be honoured for scaling some of the world’s highest peaks. Equestrian legend Malik Muhammad Atta (late), former women’s cricket star Sana Mir, and discus thrower Haider Ali will also receive the Sitara-e-Imtiaz.

The Tamgha-e-Imtiaz will be awarded to squash player Hamza Khan, shooter Mohsin Nawaz, and tennis player Rashid Malik. Pride of Performance honours will go to karate champion Shahzaib Rind and kabaddi star Muhammad Sajjad. These awards reflect the diversity of Pakistan’s sports talent.

The award ceremony will take place on March 23 next year.