As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup prepares for its 10th edition starting February 7, the ICC has highlighted some of the most memorable individual performances in the tournament’s history, including those of Pakistan’s legendary all-rounder, Shahid Afridi.
Afridi made a significant impact in the 2009 edition.
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After finishing on the losing side two years earlier, Shahid Afridi, the 2007 Player of the Tournament, returned to the 2009 competition determined to make an impact.
In the semi-final against South Africa, he scored 51 off 34 balls and claimed key wickets, including those of Herschelle Gibbs and AB de Villiers, finishing with figures of 2-16.
His all-round contribution helped Pakistan reach the final for the second consecutive time and ultimately secure the T20 World Cup trophy.
Afridi’s aggressive batting and effective bowling have established him as one of Pakistan’s most prominent T20 players.
His performances in ICC tournaments have often influenced matches decisively, combining power-hitting with crucial breakthroughs with the ball.
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The ICC also recognised other remarkable individual feats in T20 World Cup history.
In 2007, India’s Yuvraj Singh hit six sixes in a single over off Stuart Broad, becoming the first player to achieve the milestone in T20 cricket.
Australia’s Michael Hussey starred in 2010, West Indies’ Carlos Brathwaite produced a last-over victory in 2016, and more recently, Ben Stokes and Virat Kohli delivered match-winning performances in the 2022 and 2024 finals.
Other standout performances in T20 World Cup history include Sunil Narine in 2012, whose 3-9 guided West Indies to their first title, and Rangana Herath in 2014, whose five-wicket haul helped Sri Lanka secure a semi-final spot against New Zealand.
Shahid Afridi’s 2009 heroics remain a standout for Pakistan, showcasing his ability to influence games with both bat and ball.
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The ICC has honoured him for his exceptional contributions to the T20 World Cup, celebrating the moments that have shaped the history of the tournament.
