The cricket world is in mourning; Shapoor Zadran has died. He was 38 years old.
The cricket world is mourning the passing of Shapoor Zadran, a former Afghan fast bowler who had been battling hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis for some time. In January, he had moved to Delhi to try new treatments, but unfortunately, nothing could be done.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board issued an official statement: “With deep sorrow and immense sadness, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran. He was one of the leading figures in Afghan cricket, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment played a vital role in the growth and development of the game in our country.”
“Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghan cricket with honor, courage, and pride. His contributions and achievements will forever remain an important part of our cricket history, and his efforts in service of the national team will never be forgotten.”
Shapoor was one of the most recognizable faces of Afghan cricket during the national team’s rise in the 2000s and 2010s: standing 1.88 m tall, he would charge down the pitch with an exceptionally long run-up. His impact on the foundations of the game in the country was crucial. Between 2009 and 2020, he played in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is, taking a total of 80 international wickets.
He shone particularly brightly in the 2015 ODI World Cup, finishing as Afghanistan’s top bowler in Australia and New Zealand with 10 wickets. He also took part in four T20 World Cups from 2010 to 2016, taking 9 wickets in 9 matches.
