"Afridi has been an inspiration for the entire team," The News quoted Intikhab, as saying.
"He has given some stellar performances in this tournament so far and has been man-of-the-match twice already which is a great sign for Pakistan," he added.
According to Intikhab, it was very important for Afridi to lead from the front, as the entire team starts performing "if the leader does well."
"As a team's captain, Afridi had the biggest burden of responsibility on his shoulders," he said, adding, "It's great to see that he has really lived up to all the expectations," said Intikhab.
"As captain and senior player, Afridi was always one of the most important members of the team and now he has once again proved himself to be one of the valuable players.y giving such solid performances, he has certainly raised the bar for his teammates," he added.
Afridi, who has been sensational as a bowler in this World Cup, is yet to really fire as a batsman in this tournament.
He has scored 7, 16 and 20 in his first three outings, but Intikhab expressed confidence that Afridi would deliver with the bat as the event progresses.
"He has been brilliant with the ball but so far hasn't played a big knock," said Intikhab. "But it doesn't worry us because he is a big game player and will also do well with the bat in this event."
Pakistan are looking to top Pool A in a bid to have an easier quarter-final, but they will have to conquer both New Zealand and Australia for this.
Intikhab was of the view that Afridi will once again be the vital cog for his team in the tough matches against the Black Caps and the Aussies.
"He is the man in form and we are confident that Afridi will continue delivering for Pakistan in this tournament," the team manager maintained.
