Islamabad: A recent survey conducted by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan indicates that a significant portion of the Pakistani population does not favor any specific national cricketer. The survey reveals that 65% of respondents claim no favorite, highlighting a general lack of individual player attachment among the cricket-loving public.

According to Gallup and Gilani Pakistan, the survey involved a nationally representative sample of 787 adult Pakistanis from both urban and rural regions across the country’s four provinces. Among those who do name a favorite, retired cricketers Shahid Afridi and Imran Khan lead with 10% and 9% respectively, followed by current player Babar Azam at 6%. Interestingly, the survey also shows a gender disparity, with 73% of women and 57% of men reporting no favorite player.

The survey underscores the widespread national interest in cricket while simultaneously pointing to a distinct lack of favoritism towards individual players. With less than 1% selecting Shoaib Akhtar and a combined 3% for other cricketers, the findings suggest a broad-based engagement with the sport rather than with particular figures. The data was collected through telephonic surveys conducted from January 15 to February 3, 2026, with an error margin of ± 2-3 percent at the 95% confidence level.