Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, who shaped the country’s early rise in international cricket, died on Tuesday after a prolonged illness, the Afghanistan Cricket Board said.
Zadran died a day before his 39th birthday at a hospital outside New Delhi where he had been treated for a rare immune-system disorder for the last few months.
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“With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran,” the ACB said in a statement.
The board hailed him as “one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket” whose dedication and commitment helped propel the national team onto the international stage.
A strapping left-arm quick with long hair, Zadran played 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is matches between 2009 and 2020, representing Afghanistan during a period of rapid growth for the sport in the country.
Zadran also featured in four T20 World Cups between 2010 and 2016, taking nine wickets in as many matches.
He hit the winning runs during Afghanistan’s maiden World Cup triumph, a thrilling one-wicket victory against Scotland in Dunedin in 2015, while the following week he claimed two scalps during an ODI against Australia in Perth, removing David Warner and Steve Smith.
“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,” the ACB said.
Indian legend Ravi Shastri tweeted: “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 journey will always be remembered.
“A life dedicated to the sport. May his soul rest in peace.
“Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the Afghanistan cricket fraternity.”