Former Afghan cricketer Shapoor Zadar has died at the age of 38 after a battle with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare disease of the immune system. He was treated in the Delhi-NCR area for several months. His death was confirmed by the Afghanistan Cricket Board, while the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Jay Shah also paid tribute, remembering Zadran’s great contribution to Afghanistan cricket.Sharing his condolences on X, Shah praised Zadran for helping Afghanistan establish itself in international cricket. He also recalled the performance against Scotland in the 2015 ODI World Cup that led to Afghanistan’s first World Cup victory. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the death of former Afghanistan cricketer, Shapoor Zadran at the age of 38. Shapoor contributed a lot to Afghanistan’s progress in world cricket and will always be remembered for his epic win against Scotland in 2015. ICC Cricket World Cupwhich led to Afghanistan’s first World Cup victory. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire Afghanistan cricket community. May his soul rest in peace.”The Afghanistan Cricket Board described Zadran as one of the pioneers of cricket in the country, saying, “Shapoor Zadran was one of the founders of cricket in Afghanistan, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment contributed greatly to the rise and development of the game in our country. cricket to the international stage.”” It added, “Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with dignity, courage, and pride. His contributions and achievements will always be an important part of Afghanistan cricket history, and his efforts in serving the national team will never be forgotten.” Zadran represented Afghanistan in 80 international matches between 2009 and 2020.
