Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has died at the age of 38 after a prolonged illness, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Tuesday. Zadran had been battling Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare immune system disorder, and had been undergoing treatment in the Delhi-NCR region for several months.
In a post on X, the ACB said, "With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran." Paying tribute to the left-arm pacer, the board described him as one of the pioneers of Afghanistan cricket, crediting his dedication and commitment with playing a crucial role in the growth of the sport and the country's emergence on the international stage.
"Shapoor Zadran was one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment played a vital role in the rise and development of the game in our country. He was among the proud cricketers who stood at the heart of Afghanistan's early cricket journey and helped build the path that brought Afghan cricket to the international stage," the ACB said.
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"Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honour, courage, and pride. His contributions and achievements will always remain an important part of the history of Afghanistan cricket, and his efforts in the service of the national team will never be forgotten," it added.
Zadran represented Afghanistan in 80 international matches between 2009 and 2020, featuring in 44 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 36 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
The board also hailed him as an inspiration for aspiring Afghan cricketers, saying his fighting spirit, determination and passion for the game inspired an entire generation and gave them confidence to dream of a brighter future for Afghanistan cricket.
"Beyond his achievements on the field, Shapoor Zadran was a true source of inspiration for many young Afghan cricketers and for cricket followers across the world. His fighting spirit, determination, and love for the game gave hope to many and encouraged a generation to dream bigger and believe in the future of Afghanistan cricket," the ACB said.
Extending its condolences to Zadran's family, friends and the wider Afghan cricket fraternity, the board said his legacy would continue to inspire generations to come.
"The Afghanistan Cricket Board extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to his family, friends, loved ones, former teammates, and the entire Afghan cricket community. His loss is deeply felt, and his memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of the people of Afghanistan and the cricketing world. May his soul rest in eternal peace. May Allah Almighty forgive him, grant him the highest rank in Jannat-ul-Firdaws, and bless him with the best of rewards," the ACB said in its X post.
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