'Shahid Afridi Day' - A day named after the Pakistani all-rounder in an American town

Shahid Afridi, best known as ‘Boom Boom’ Afridi is certainly one of the most loved Pakistani cricketers globally. Well known for his aggressive batting style and his 37 balls century, Afridi’s superstardom has made him the face of Pakistan Cricket. Afridi’s fame isn’t just limited to his cricketing abilities, the former star all-rounder has been doing great in terms of social service too.

Very few Pakistan cricketers are loved unconditionally in India and Shahid Khan Afridi’s fan following amongst the Indians speaks for itself. However, Afridi’s fan following isn’t just limited to Pakistan, India or any other cricket playing nations. The right-handed batsman’s 21-year career is celebrated all over the world. In a country where cricket isn’t so popular, February 5th is celebrated as Shahid Afridi day in honor of the Pakistan legend.

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Starting from 2014, the American town of Port Arthur in Texas celebrates every 5th of February as Shahid Afridi day. February 5 was declared as ‘Shahid Khan Afridi Day’ in the town of Port Arthur, Texas, by the city’s mayor Deloris ‘Bobbie’ Prince. He was also given the keys to the town in a ceremony.

With a purpose of raising funds for his foundation – Shahid Afridi Foundation, Afridi visited the city of Port Arthur in 2014. He also participated in various fundraisers during his visit to America. The foundation stated that the funds were utilized in the construction of a hospital and a school back in Pakistan.

“We join the world of cricket in thanking him for using his talents not only in cricket but… to help support those who truly deserve happiness. The world of cricket and the Pakistan national team is blessed to have Mr. Afridi as one of its members,”  the declaration issued by the mayor stated.

Honored to have a day named after me says Afridi:

“Honoured to have ‘ShahidAfridiDay’ named after me by the City of Port Arthur Mayor’s Office, for my cricketing achievements. Proud to be representing Pakistan at home and abroad, Alhamdulillah,” the former cricketer said.

Despite his retirement from international cricket in 2016, Afridi has been in the news for his charity work. Afridi is one of the key members of Pakistan who is struggling to improve the living standards in each and every corner of Pakistan. Also, he is named alongside legendary sportspersons such as Cristiano Ronaldo, John Cena, Maria Sharapova and many others on the list of most charitable athletes.

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