Shapoor Zadran Dies: Former Afghanistan Pacer Passes Away After Prolonged Illness
Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has died at 38 following a battle with the rare immune disorder HLH. A pioneer of the sport, he played 80 international matches and was central to Afghanistan’s rise in global cricket. The ACB honoured his legacy as an inspiration to future generations.
The cricketing world is in mourning following the death of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, who passed away on Monday night at the age of 38. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) officially confirmed the news on Tuesday, expressing profound grief over the loss of a player who served as a cornerstone for the national team during its formative years.
Zadran had been battling a rare and severe immune system disorder known as Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). He had been receiving intensive medical treatment at a hospital in New Delhi since January 2026, after his health began to decline in October last year. Despite the efforts of medical professionals and the support of his teammates, the left-arm pacer succumbed to the illness just one day before his 39th birthday. MS Dhoni Turns 45: Celebrating the Illustrious Career of India's 'Captain Cool' on His Birthday.
Shapoor Zadran Dead, Afghanistan Cricket Board Announces
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran.
Shapoor Zadran was one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication,… pic.twitter.com/iPIAJ6HLkq
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) July 7, 2026
Pioneering a New Era for Afghan Cricket
Shapoor Zadran was widely recognised as one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket. His unwavering dedication and passion were instrumental in elevating the sport within the country and securing its place on the international stage. Throughout his career, which spanned from 2009 to 2020, he represented his nation in 80 international matches, claiming 44 One-Day International and 36 T20 International wickets.
His legacy is perhaps most famously tied to the 2015 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, where his performance helped steer Afghanistan to a historic victory against Scotland. As the team's leading wicket-taker in that tournament with 10 wickets, he demonstrated the fighting spirit that became synonymous with his name. His contributions were vital in Afghanistan’s journey through the World Cricket League divisions and its eventual transition into a Full Member of the International Cricket Council in 2018.
Inspiration to a New Generation
Beyond his statistical achievements, Zadran served as a mentor and a source of motivation for young cricketers across the globe. The ACB noted that his resilience and love for the game provided hope to countless fans and inspired a new generation of players to believe in the potential of Afghan cricket. His colleagues, including former captain Asghar Afghan and star all-rounder Rashid Khan, were closely involved in supporting his medical journey in India. Rahul Dravid's Son, Anvay Scores 87 in India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 Match.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board has extended its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the wider cricketing community. As tributes pour in from around the world, Zadran will be remembered not only for his ability to bowl with pace and precision but for the courage and pride he brought to every match he played for his country.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 07, 2026 04:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
