Afghanistan pacer Shapoor Zadran announces retirement from international cricket

Shapoor Zadran made his international debut in 2009.

Afghanistan’s tall left-arm fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 37.

Zadran made his ODI debut in Afghanistan’s second-ever ODI match in 2009 and his last international outing was in 2020.

In between, he featured in a total of 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is, picking up 80 wickets overall.

My journey began in the most challenging times of Afghan cricket: Shapoor Zadran

Born in the Logar Province, Afghanistan, in 1987, Shapoor Zadran escaped to Peshawar in Pakistan when war engulfed his nation. He learned the art of fast bowling at Arbab Niaz Stadium and Gymthana, and hoped to play for Pakistan, citing Shoaib Akhtar as his idol.

But he moved back to Afghanistan and made his ODI debut in 2009 and T20I debut in 2010.

In his retirement note on Facebook, Zadran said, “My journey began in the most challenging times of Afghan cricket. 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.”

Zadran was the reason for one of Afghanistan’s most famous and historic moments when he helped Afghanistan defeat Scotland in Dunedin during the 2015 World Cup to record their maiden win at an ODI World Cup.

In that match, Zadran took 4/38 to restrict Scotland to 210. In the chase, Afghanistan stumbled but Zadran formed a 19-run unbeaten partnership for the 10th wicket and hit the winning boundary with three balls left.

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