By Zainab Shafiq 
In a moment that transcends sports boundaries, FIFA honours Shaheen Shah Afridi by placing him among global football giants in a post that’s taken social media by storm. The world’s footballing authority featured the Pakistani cricket superstar alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Luka Modrić, all celebrated for their legacy with the number 10 jersey.
Shared by the official FIFA World Cup Instagram account, the post titled “The iconic” presented these sporting legends side-by-side, celebrating their global impact. For many Pakistani fans, the inclusion of Shaheen Afridi isn’t just surprising, it’s a powerful recognition of cricket’s influence and Afridi’s growing stature beyond the boundary line.
While the number 10 is historically synonymous with football brilliance, FIFA honours Shaheen Shah to symbolise the influence of athletes across disciplines, especially ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Sources suggest this move is part of a larger campaign to engage audiences in non-traditional football markets like Pakistan, where cricket reigns supreme.
PSL Dominance Elevates LQ’s Skipper Global Profile as FIFA Honours Shaheen Shah Afridi
Shaheen Afridi’s rising international appeal isn’t happening in isolation. The 25-year-old fast bowler has just steered Lahore Qalandars to a record third PSL title, further strengthening his resume as the most successful captain in the league’s history. Under his leadership, the Qalandars defeated Quetta Gladiators in a thrilling PSL 10 finale at Gaddafi Stadium.
Needing 13 runs in the last over, Sikandar Raza sealed the victory with a boundary and a six, adding another feather to Afridi’s cap. With this third title, Afridi stands alone. No other PSL captain has lifted the trophy more than once.
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