![Shapoor Zadran hospitalized in critical condition [Source: @shoubit_sports/X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768546845409_ShapoorZadranhospitalizedincriticalcondition.jpg?type=hq)
Shapoor Zadran hospitalized in critical condition [Source: @shoubit_sports/X]
Former Afghanistan cricketer Shapoor Zadran is facing a serious health challenge at the age of 38. The former pacer has been hospitalised due to ongoing health issues and is currently undergoing treatment. According to statements from his family, Shapoor Zadran has been dealing with medical problems for quite some time.
A few days ago, on January 12, Shapoor’s brother, Ghamai Zadran, shared an update on social media, revealing that Shapoor was in critical condition and receiving hospital care.
What happened to Shapoor Zadran?
Sources close to Afghanistan cricket have indicated that Zadran has been struggling with a low white blood cell count. As per the sources, his white blood cell levels dropped to dangerous and risky levels, further complicating his condition.
However, no official or detailed medical report has yet been released to confirm the exact nature of his illness. As per a TOI report, the family of Shapoor has been mulling to shift him to India for better medical treatment.
Though detailed medical reports are yet to be officially confirmed, a decreased white blood cell count can be linked to a wide range of possible conditions.
For instance, viral infections such as hepatitis or flu, autoimmune disorders, or bone marrow-related problems like aplastic anemia, leukemia, or lymphoma can lead to such depletion. In addition, severe infections including sepsis, malaria, or tuberculosis can also cause a significant reduction in a person’s white blood cell count.
Who is Shapoor Zadran?
Shapoor Zadran, a retired Afghanistan international, is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket. A fierce left-arm fast-medium bowler, he was known for his intimidating run-up and aggressive style, often compared to Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar.
Standing over six feet tall, Zadran announced his retirement from international cricket just a year ago, on January 30, 2025.
Zadran’s early life and childhood
Though born in Afghanistan’s Logar province, Zadran’s family moved to Peshawar, Pakistan, due to conflict in the region, and he spent much of his childhood there.
He shared close ties with several Afghanistan stars, including Mohammad Nabi and Asghar Stanikzai. As mentioned earlier, Zadran initially idolised Shoaib Akhtar and had dreams of playing for Pakistan before eventually giving trials for the Afghanistan national team.
Zadran’s professional cricket career
Zadran’s cricketing journey began in the early 2000s with the Afghanistan Under-19 team, where he featured in the 2004 ACC Under-19 Cup. He steadily rose through the ranks and made his ODI debut in 2009, followed by his T20I debut in 2010.
Over his international career, Zadran featured in 44 One Day Internationals, picking up 43 wickets at an average of 36.95 and an economy rate of 4.80. In T20Is, he claimed 37 wickets in 36 matches, averaging 24.5 with a strike rate of 18.7.
The highlight of Zadran’s career came during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. In a historic match against Scotland, he took four wickets for 38 runs and later struck the match-winning boundary, helping Afghanistan register their first-ever World Cup victory.
Former cricketer wishes Zadran’s speedy recovery
The news of Shapoor Zadran’s hospitalisation has prompted an outpouring of support from the cricketing fraternity. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif expressed his concern on social media and prayed for Zadran’s recovery.
Following Latif’s message, several fans and fellow cricketers from across the region have also shared heartfelt wishes for his speedy and complete recovery.
