New Delhi,  July 8, 2026

The cricketing world is mourning the loss of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, whose contributions played a vital role in the country's rise on the international stage. The 38-year-old passed away in India on Tuesday after a prolonged illness, just a day before his 39th birthday, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape Afghanistan's remarkable cricket journey.

The left-arm pacer represented Afghanistan in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is between 2009 and 2020. He had been undergoing treatment at a New Delhi hospital after being diagnosed with stage four Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and life-threatening immune disorder. His condition worsened due to recurring infections, dengue and a sharp decline in his red blood cell count, leading to his admission to the intensive care unit in May. Zadran's treatment in India became possible after Rashid Khan and Mirwais Ashraf helped expedite his visa following medical advice to seek treatment abroad.

Paying tribute in a post on X, ICC chairman Jay Shah wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of former Afghan cricketer Shapoor Zadran at the age of 38. Shapoor played a significant role in Afghanistan’s remarkable rise in international cricket and will always be remembered for his match-winning all-round performance against Scotland in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, which secured Afghanistan’s first-ever World Cup victory. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire Afghanistan cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace."

Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Afghanistan cricket, Zadran leaves behind an enduring legacy that extends beyond his playing career. His unforgettable all-round display against Scotland at the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup remains one of the defining moments in Afghanistan's cricket history, ensuring his contribution to the sport will be remembered for years to come.