By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: One of the pioneers of Afghanistan’s cricket and a fearless left-arm pacer Shapoor Zadran died on Tuesday at a Delhi hospital.
He was suffering from a rare illness relating to immune system disorder.
He was 38. He had been under treatment in a New Delhi hospital since January this year. He was actually suffering from this rare ailment, in which white blood cells destroy body’s other organs.
“With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran,” Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Tuesday via X.
“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.”
“Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honor, 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,” ACB said.
“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 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.
Zadran formally announced his retirement from cricket in January 2025, bringing down the curtain on a 22-year journey dedicated to the sport. Having made his international debut in 2009, he represented his country in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is. Though his final international fixture came in 2020, he continued to serve the domestic circuit, playing his last competitive match in 2022. He leaves behind a legacy as a fearless vanguard of Afghan sport that remains entirely immortalised.
