KABUL: Afghanistan’s former fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, who passed away in New Delhi on Tuesday after battling a long illness, was laid to rest in Kabul on Thursday. The funeral prayers were held at the Eidgah Mosque and attended by family members, friends, fellow cricketers, and thousands of mourners.
The cricket fraternity worldwide has come together to honor Zadran’s legacy, with the International Cricket Council (ICC), national cricket boards, and players both past and present paying tribute to him as a trailblazer in Afghan cricket.
The ICC expressed its sorrow over the loss, calling Zadran a “cricket hero who made a significant impact in the World Cup,” and highlighting his contributions to the sport as a cherished member of cricket’s global family.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) recognized Zadran as a foundational figure in the development of Afghan cricket. The board stated that his dedication, passion, and steadfast commitment helped shape the game’s growth in the country, emphasizing that he was among the early cricketers who laid the groundwork for Afghanistan’s rise on the international scene.
Yuvraj Singh, the former Indian all-rounder, described Zadran as “a true pioneer of Afghan cricket,” adding that his enthusiasm and dedication would be remembered forever.
“Losing someone who contributed so much to the game is truly heartbreaking,” Singh wrote, offering condolences to Zadran’s family and the cricket community in Afghanistan.
Ravi Shastri, the former Indian captain and commentator, also paid homage, stating that Zadran’s role in Afghanistan’s cricket journey would never be forgotten.
Shoaib Akhtar, the former Pakistani fast bowler, praised Zadran as a fearless competitor who played a crucial part in putting Afghanistan on the cricketing map. Similarly, Angelo Mathews of Sri Lanka remembered him as “a champion both on and off the field.”
The Bangladesh Cricket Board expressed its heartfelt sorrow, emphasizing that Zadran’s contributions to Afghan cricket would always be cherished. Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood also extended his sympathies to Zadran’s loved ones.
Messages of condolence flowed in from various cricket authorities and players worldwide, reflecting the deep respect Zadran earned throughout his career.
Having represented Afghanistan in 44 ODIs, 36 T20Is, and a Test match, Zadran took a total of 43 wickets in ODIs and 37 in T20Is over more than ten years of international play. He played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s historic first ICC Cricket World Cup appearance, notably in their memorable victory over Scotland in 2015, where he was Afghanistan’s leading wicket-taker with 10 dismissals.
Zadran officially retired from international cricket in 2020 and announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2025. Widely regarded as a pioneer, he was instrumental in transforming Afghanistan from an emerging cricket nation into a respected contender on the world stage.
