Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, who famously struck the winning runs to secure his country's inaugural Cricket World Cup victory, has died at the age of 38. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed his passing, stating it was with "profound grief and deep sorrow." Zadran had been receiving treatment in New Delhi for a rare immune condition.
During his international career from 2009 to 2020, Zadran represented Afghanistan in 44 One Day Internationals and 36 Twenty20 matches, accumulating 80 wickets. A significant moment in his career and in Afghan cricket history was his role in the match where Afghanistan defeated Scotland to achieve their first World Cup triumph in 2015.
The ACB described Zadran as 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." The board further stated that Zadran served Afghanistan cricket with "honour, courage, and pride," and his contributions will remain an important part of the nation's cricket history.
Former India all-rounder, national team head coach, and commentator Ravi Shastri also paid tribute on social media, calling Zadran "one of the main architects behind Afghanistan's rise in world cricket." Shastri added that Zadran's contribution to the game and the team's journey would always be remembered, describing his life as "dedicated to the sport."