Zadran played international cricket for Afghanistan from 2009-2020.
Zadran was suffering from haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare, life-threatening disease in which the immune system starts failing. He was battling stage four HLH in the intensive care unit, which affects adults who have cancer or are prone to infection.
The patient suffers from hyperinflammation, which is brought on by an overactive immune system and affects the body's tissues, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and bone marrow.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board, on July 7, 2026, confirmed that Zadran had passed away and shared a heartfelt tribute to the former left-arm pacer.
“With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan quick bowler Shapoor Zadran. Shapoor Zadran 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. He was among the proud cricketers who stood at the heart of Afghanistan’s early cricket journey and helped build the path that brought Afghan cricket to the international stage. Throughout his career, Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honour, courage, and pride. His contributions and achievements will always remain an important part of the history of Afghanistan cricket, and his efforts in the service of the national team will never be forgotten.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Shapoor Zadran was a true source of inspiration for many young Afghan cricketers and for cricket followers across the world. His fighting spirit, determination, and love for the game gave hope to many and encouraged a generation to dream bigger and believe in the future of Afghanistan cricket. The Afghanistan Cricket Board extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to his family, friends, loved ones, former teammates, and the entire Afghan cricket community. His loss is deeply felt, and his memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of the people of Afghanistan and the cricketing world. May his soul rest in eternal peace. May Allah Almighty forgive him, grant him the highest rank in Jannat-ul-Firdaws, and bless him with the best of rewards,” ACB officials' account posted on X.
إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) July 7, 2026
With profound grief and deep sorrow, the Afghanistan Cricket Board mourns the passing of former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran.
Shapoor Zadran was one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication,… pic.twitter.com/iPIAJ6HLkq
Zadran was one of Afghanistan's first fast bowlers and was crucial to the country's success on the world stage. He was known for his speed and aggressive bowling while playing for Afghanistan in Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Shapoor was a formidable presence on the cricket pitch when he ran in to bowl, standing tall at 6'2" with a big physique and characteristic flowing hair.
He played 44 ODIs, taking 43 wickets, and 36 T20Is, claiming 37 wickets. He was part of the Afghanistan team that played in the 2014 Asia Cup and 2015 ICC World Cup. He also played in the 2016 Asia Cup T20 tournament and was part of the Afghanistan side that played the T20 World Cup from 2010 to 2016.