Statement by Amjad Ali, Honorary Consul-General of Pakistan to Trinidad and Tobago, on West Indies cricketer Daren Sammy receiving the ‘Sitara-i-Pakistan’, one of the most distinguished civil decorations of Pakistan
Mr. Daren Sammy is one of the most popular and renowned cricketers in the world. He has proven, with his actions, that he has a great love for the people of Pakistan.
During the ceaseless wave of terrorism, Pakistan’s image had suffered badly. The introduction of Pakistan Super League (PSL) helped to uplift the country’s image in the world.
However, at a time when most of the foreign players backed off from playing cricket in Pakistan due to security reasons, it was Mr. Daren Sammy, the captain of Peshawar Zalmi cricket team, who against all odds helped the cause of restoration of international cricket in Pakistan and highlighted its soft image.
He stood out during this whole time and has been a true Ambassador and flag-bearer of Pakistan ever since.
He was the first foreign cricketer who agreed to play the PSL Final of 2017 at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which convinced Englishmen Dawid Malan and Chris Jordan, as well as West Indies teammate Marlon Samuels to undertake that memorable trip to Lahore.
Mr. Daren Sammy gave fond and happy memories to cricket audiences worldwide and with his return trips to Pakistan, he has left a lasting impression on the sport in Pakistan.
In recognition of his outstanding and meritorious services in the promotion of cricket in Pakistan, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been pleased to confer upon him, the award of ‘Sitara-i-Pakistan’ in the field of Services to Pakistan.
The ‘Sitara-i-Pakistan’ is one of the most distinguished civil decorations given to persons who have provided outstanding contributions to Pakistan in their respected fields.
It is a great privilege and honour for me to present this award to Mr. Daren Sammy on behalf of the President and Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.