Shapoor Zadran of Afghanistan announces retirement from international cricket with the Afghan international making his debut in 2009.
Shapoor Zadran, a fast bowler for Afghanistan, has declared his intention to retire from international cricket. Since making his debut in 2009, the tall left-arm fast has featured in 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is, taking 80 wickets in combined competitions. Prior to ending his career on Thursday at the age of 37, he made his final appearance on the international scene in 2020.
He had a typical fast bowler’s mindset, was aggressive and sometimes lethal, and named Shoaib Akthar as his inspiration.
During the 2015 ODI World Cup, he gained widespread cult hero status and was cited as a pivotal player in Afghanistan’s ascent to international fame. Steven Smith, David Warner, Kane Williamson, Tillakaratne Dilshan, and Mahmudullah were among his 10 dismissals, which were marked by joyous celebrations and had an average of 26.50.
However, his greatest achievement was in Dunedin versus Scotland, where he played a key role in the nation’s first victory at a major competition.
Shapoor was available at No. 11 to help create an undefeated final-wicket stand of 19 after taking 4 for 38 from his ten overs to limit Scotland to 210. With three balls remaining, he even hit the crucial boundary that gave Afghanistan a historic one-wicket victory. Shapoor achieved his second-highest ODI score of 12 not out.
Shapoor described his choice to resign as “one of the toughest decisions” of his life in a statement posted on his Facebook page.
“My journey began in the most challenging times of Afghan cricket,” he said. “I faced difficulties, played under limited resources, and overcame many obstacles, but I never lost faith. The support of cricket fans, my teammates, coaches, and especially my family kept me going through every hardship. I sincerely thank everyone who stood by my side throughout this long journey.
“The love, prayers, and unwavering support of my family, friends, fans, and the people of Afghanistan have been my greatest strength. I will always be grateful for it.”