Afghanistan bowler Shapoor Zadran dies aged 38 following rare illness

Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has died at the age of 38 in a New Delhi hospital after receiving treatment for a rare immune system disorder.

The trailblazing pace bowler passed away on Tuesday, just one day before his 39th birthday.

He had reportedly been undergoing severe medical treatment for the condition in the Indian capital.

Foundation of a cricketing nation

The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed his death on social media, expressing profound grief over the sudden loss.

“He was one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment played a vital role in the rise and development of the game in our country.”

The left-arm quick made his one-day international debut in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of the national side during their critical formative years.

Across a distinguished career, the 38-year-old represented his nation in 80 international matches, comprising 44 ODIs and 36 Twenty20 fixtures.

Historic World Cup heroics

His most iconic career moment arrived during the 2015 tournament co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

The towering seamer famously hit the winning boundary against Scotland to secure his country’s first ever victory at a World Cup.

Since that breakthrough milestone, the national men’s team has evolved into a formidable and highly competitive force on the global stage.

Their recent progression includes a stunning 69-run victory over England at the 2023 World Cup and reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Those modern achievements were built directly upon the pioneering efforts and passion of early stars like the late pace bowler.