Shapoor Zadran, a foundational figure in Afghanistan cricket and a trailblazing fast bowler, has died at the age of 38. He passed away at a New Delhi hospital while reportedly undergoing treatment for a rare and severe immune system disorder. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed his death, noting it occurred one day before his 39th birthday.
Zadran played 80 matches for Afghanistan across all formats between 2009 and 2020, taking 80 international wickets. He was a key member of the team during their rise in international cricket, notably being Afghanistan's most impactful bowler at the 2015 ODI World Cup with 10 wickets. He is also remembered for scoring the winning runs in Afghanistan's first-ever World Cup victory against Scotland in 2015.
The left-arm seam bowler was considered one of the most recognizable faces of cricket in the country and played a significant role in increasing the sport's profile. He is reported to have battled Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a condition where the immune system fails. During his final months, Zadran received visits from members of the current Afghan national squad, and he was known to have been a mentor to bowler Rashid Khan.
The ACB issued a statement highlighting Zadran's dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment, stating that he was one of the figures who laid the groundwork for Afghan cricket. The board emphasized that his contributions, achievements, honor, courage, and pride will remain an important part of Afghanistan's cricketing history.
Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his sadness on social media, calling Zadran one of the main architects of Afghanistan's rise in world cricket and acknowledging his dedication to the sport.