Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran passed away on July 7, 2026, one day before his 39th birthday. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed his death, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a player who contributed significantly to the nation's cricketing journey.
Shapoor Zadran's Career and Contributions
Shapoor Zadran, born on July 8, 1987, in Khost, Afghanistan, was a left-arm fast bowler known for his pace and swing. He represented Afghanistan in 1 Test, 9 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 10 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) between 2010 and 2015. His best bowling figures in ODIs were 3 for 35 against Kenya in 2013.
He was part of Afghanistan's historic rise in international cricket, including their first Test match against India in 2018, although he did not play in that match. Zadran also played for the Afghan Cheetahs in the Afghanistan Premier League and was a key figure in domestic cricket.
Condolences and Tributes
The ACB chairman, Mirwais Ashraf, said, "Shapoor was a dedicated cricketer who served the nation with pride. His untimely demise is a great loss for Afghan cricket. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends." Former teammates and fans also paid tribute on social media, remembering his spirited performances and contributions to the team.
Ex-Afghanistan captain Asghar Afghan tweeted, "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my former teammate Shapoor Zadran. He was a fighter on the field and a great friend off it. May his soul rest in peace."
Legacy and Impact
Shapoor Zadran's death marks another tragic loss for Afghan cricket, which has seen several young talents pass away in recent years. He is survived by his wife and two children. The ACB announced that his funeral will be held in Khost, with full honors.
His passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring spirit of Afghan cricket. Zadran's journey from a war-torn region to representing his country on the international stage inspired many young cricketers in Afghanistan.
