As Pakistan got ready to host the ICC World XI for the final T20I of the three-match series in Lahore on Friday, there was some special guests in attendance at the jam-packed Gaddafi stadium.

Former skipper Misbah ul Haq and all-rounder Shahid Afridi graced the final match with their presence at the behest of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The two Pakistan legends were smartly clad in traditional attire as they came on to witness the return of international cricket to the country after years of isolation.

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The two stalwarts took a lap of honour to the vociferous applause of the Pakistan cricket fans in an auto-rickshaw colourfully decorated for the historic occasion.

During the first T20I of the Independence Cup on Tuesday, the start of the World XI led by skipper Faf du Plessis had entered the stadium in similar fashion to a rapturous welcome from the Lahore crowd.

Misbah and Afridi also posed with the Pakistan squad for pictures in between the innings interval and there was no hiding in the joy of the players, most of whom had played along with the legends before their retirement.

Another legend, Younis Khan was conspicuous by his absence and it was no surprise, given his recent criticism of the PCB where he alluded that he had not been given the respect he deserved during his playing career.

In the end, the hosts pipped the visitors by 33 runs to capture the Independence Cup 2-1. Pakistan had won the toss an batted first, putting up a total of 183-4 before restricting the visitors to 150-8 in their 20 overs.