Islamabad: Cricket star turned politician Imran Khan has declared victory for his party in Pakistan's historic elections, promising a "new" Pakistan.

Khan, who aspires to be the country's next prime minister, said in a televised address to the nation on Thursday that "thanks to God, we won and we were successful."

Imran Khan shows his marked thumb after casting his vote. Credit:AP

He added: "If God wills, we will set an example."

Pakistan's election commission has not yet released official, final results but Khan has maintained a commanding lead according to projections by many television stations, though it's unclear if he will have to form a coalition government.