Shapoor Zadran Dies at 38 After Battling Rare Immune Disorder
Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran passed away on July 7, 2026, at the age of 38 after a prolonged battle with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare immune system disorder. He had been receiving treatment in the Delhi-NCR region for several months. The cricketing community, including Afghanistan stars Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai, as well as former Indian coach Ravi Shastri, expressed deep condolences.
Mohammad Nabi Remembers a Loyal Friend and Patriot
In a heartfelt post on X, Mohammad Nabi offered condolences to Zadran's family, calling him a loyal friend and a proud representative of Afghanistan. "You were not just a close friend, but a true servant of your homeland and a representative of Afghanistan's honor," Nabi wrote. He added that Zadran's services and memory will remain eternally in the hearts of the Afghan people.
Azmatullah Omarzai Calls Loss 'Major' for Afghanistan Cricket
Azmatullah Omarzai also expressed profound sorrow, describing the passing as a major loss for Zadran's family, friends, and the cricket community of Afghanistan. "May his soul rest in peace; may Allah the Almighty grant him paradise, and bestow patience upon his family, friends, and all sympathizers," Omarzai said in his X post.
Ravi Shastri Praises Zadran as Architect of Afghanistan's Rise
Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri paid tribute, highlighting Zadran's role in Afghanistan's ascent in world cricket. "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," Shastri wrote. He offered heartfelt condolences to the Afghanistan cricket fraternity.
Harsha Bhogle and IPL Franchises Join Tributes
Commentator Harsha Bhogle recalled Zadran's charismatic presence on the field, saying, "I loved watching him play, his run-up, his intent. Shapoor and Hamid Hassan formed such a big part of Afghanistan's early years. Way too soon." IPL franchises Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans also expressed sorrow. Punjab Kings called him "one of Afghanistan cricket's greatest icons," while Gujarat Titans offered condolences to his friends and family.
Zadran's International Career: 80 Matches for Afghanistan
Shapoor Zadran represented Afghanistan in 80 international matches between 2009 and 2020, comprising 44 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 36 T20 Internationals. He was a key figure in Afghanistan's early cricketing journey, forming a formidable pace partnership with Hamid Hassan. His death at 38 has left a void in the cricketing world.
