Afghan Fast Bowler Shapoor Zadran Retires After 22 Years in Cricket
Former Afghanistan national cricket team fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has announced his retirement from international cricket after 22 years of service to the sport.
In a statement released on his Facebook page on Thursday, January 30, 2025, Zadran described the decision as “one of the toughest” of his life.
“After 22 years of service, sacrifice, and love for cricket, I officially announce my retirement from international cricket. This has been one of the toughest decisions of my life because cricket has been more than just a game to me—it has been my passion, my identity, and my purpose,” he wrote.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has accepted his resignation, stating that “ACB thank Shapoor Zadran for his contributions to the rise of Afghanistan cricket and wish him the best of luck for the future.”
The towering left-arm pacer played 44 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 36 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) since making his debut in 2009. Over his career, he claimed 80 wickets across both formats.
ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf also lauded Shapoor Zadran’s contributions to Afghan cricket, calling him a key figure in the sport’s growth. In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Shapoor Zadran is a hero of Afghan cricket’s early days. He has made tireless efforts to develop cricket in the country and played a vital role in the team’s major victories.”
Former Afghanistan captain Asghar Afghan also paid tribute to Shapoor’s career, stating, “You have always represented the country with passion and dedication. We share many fond memories—from our early struggles to the successful internationalization of Afghan cricket. Your contributions are truly appreciated.”
Mohammad Nabi also praised Shapoor Zadran, stating, “Shapoor was one of our finest players in the early days. His achievements over the past two decades are a source of pride for all of us.”
His last international appearance came in 2020 before officially calling time on his career at the age of 37.
