Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has passed away at the age of 38 after battling a rare immune disorder. He died in New Delhi, just a day before his 39th birthday, bringing an end to the life of one of Afghanistan cricket’s early pioneers.

Key figure in Afghanistan’s rise

Zadran was one of the players who helped Afghanistan emerge as a competitive force in international cricket. The left-arm pacer represented the national team in 44 One-Day Internationals and 36 T20 Internationals between 2009 and 2020.

His most memorable moment came during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup when he hit the winning runs against Scotland to seal Afghanistan’s first-ever World Cup victory. He also featured in four T20 World Cups and played an important role in the team’s journey from Associate status to the highest level of international cricket.

Known for his passion and commitment, Zadran earned the respect of teammates and fans alike during a career that spanned more than a decade.

Tributes pour in after his passing

According to reports, Zadran had been suffering from Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and life-threatening disorder in which the body’s immune system becomes overactive. He had been undergoing treatment in India for the past few months before his death.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board paid tribute to the former pacer, describing him as one of the players who laid the foundation for the country’s remarkable rise in international cricket. The board said his contributions on and off the field would always be remembered.

Messages of condolence also poured in from former teammates, cricketers and fans around the world. Many remembered him as a fearless fast bowler who played with pride and helped shape the future of Afghanistan cricket.

Although his career ended several years ago, Shapoor Zadran’s achievements remain a significant part of Afghanistan’s cricket history. His role in some of the country’s biggest milestones ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Afghan cricketers.