Ananya Lohia , Delhi - Afghanistan cricket has lost one of its pioneering stars as former fast bowler Shapoor Zadran passed away at the age of 38 after a prolonged illness. The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed that the left-arm pacer died in Delhi, where he was undergoing treatment for a rare and life-threatening immune disorder.

Zadran was one of the key figures in Afghanistan's rise on the international stage. He announced himself with a four-wicket haul on his ODI debut and became a national hero during the 2015 ODI World Cup after starring in Afghanistan's historic win over Scotland. His trademark long hair, fiery pace and passionate celebrations made him one of the country's most recognisable cricketers.

Paying tribute, the Afghanistan Cricket Board described Zadran as a foundation-laying figure whose dedication helped shape the future of Afghan cricket. He represented Afghanistan in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is, finishing his international career with 80 wickets and leaving behind a legacy that inspired generations of cricketers.