Trailblazing Afghanistan cricketer Shapoor Zadran has died at a New Delhi hospital aged 38.
The fast bowler, who played 80 times for his country in all formats, was reportedly receiving treatment for a rare and severe immune system disorder.
Zadran died just one day before his 39th birthday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed in a statement.
The left-arm seam bowler was arguably most famous for scoring the winning runs as Afghanistan secured their first ever World Cup victory against Scotland in 2015.
It read: ‘Shapoor Zadran was one of the foundation-laying figures of Aghanistan cricket, whose dedication, passion and unwavering commitment played a vidal role in the rise and development of the game in our country.
‘Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honour, courage and pride.
Trailblazing Afghanistan cricketer Shapoor Zadran has died at a New Delhi hospital aged 38
The left-arm seam bowler was arguably most famous for scoring the winning runs as Afghanistan secured their first ever World Cup victory against Scotland in 2015 (He is pictured during the game)
‘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.’
Zadran is reported to have spent his final months battling a rare disease called Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), which causes the immune system to fail.
He was one of the most recognisable faces of cricket in Afghanistan, and played a huge part in growing the sport’s profile in the country.
He played 44 One Day Internationals 36 T20 Internationals between 2009 and 2020, taking a total of 80 international wickets.
At the 2015 ODI World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Zadran was Afghanistan’s most impactful bowler with 10 wickets.
Just last month, Zadran was visited by the current Afghan national squad during their tour of India. The fast bowler was said to have been a mentor to well-renowned leg spin Rashid Khan.
Legendary India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri wrote on X today: ‘Really sad to hear about the passing of Shapoor Zadran.
‘One of the main architects behind Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket, his contribution to the game and the team’s journeys will be remember.
‘A life dedicated to the sport. May his soul rest in peace.
‘Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the Afghanistan cricket fraternity.’
