ICC Chairman Jay Shah has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, who passed away at the age of 38 on Tuesday, July 8, 2026. Zadran had been battling Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare immune system disorder, and had been receiving treatment in the Delhi-NCR region for several months.
Jay Shah's Tribute on Social Media
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Shah highlighted Zadran's pivotal role in Afghanistan's rise in international cricket. He specifically recalled Zadran's match-winning all-round performance against Scotland during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he took four wickets for 38 runs in 10 overs and scored an unbeaten 12, securing Afghanistan's first-ever World Cup victory.
"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," Shah wrote on X.
Afghanistan Cricket Board's Statement
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced Zadran's passing on Tuesday, describing him as one of the pioneers of Afghan cricket. In an official statement, the ACB said, "With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran."
The ACB further noted that Zadran was a "foundation-laying figure" of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication and commitment were instrumental in the sport's growth and the country's rise on the international stage. "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 added.
The board emphasized that Zadran's contributions will remain an important part of Afghanistan cricket history. "Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honour, courage, and pride. His contributions and achievements will always remain an important part of the history of Afghanistan cricket, and his efforts in the service of the national team will never be forgotten," the ACB stated.
Zadran's International Career
Shapoor Zadran represented Afghanistan in 80 international matches between 2009 and 2020, comprising 44 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 36 T20 Internationals. He was known for his left-arm fast bowling and ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs. His performance in the 2015 World Cup remains a highlight, as he helped Afghanistan achieve their first victory in the tournament's history.
The cricketing community has mourned Zadran's untimely death, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, officials, and fans worldwide. His legacy as a trailblazer for Afghan cricket continues to inspire future generations.
