Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has announced his retirement from international cricket who played 44 ODIs and 36 T20Is since his debut in 2009.
He picked 80 wickets in white ball cricket with his last appearance came in 2020, before calling time on his career on Thursday.
The 37-year-old, had an aggressive and typical fast bowler’s mentality revealing that Shoaib Akhtar was his Idol. Considered a key figure in Afghanistan’s rise in the global scene, he earned a hero status during the 2015 ODI World Cup.
His has dismissed some great players like Steve Smith, David Warner, Kan Williamson, Tillakaratne Dilshan and Mahmudullah in his career.
In his facebook page he released a statement saying that Shapoor’s decision to retire was ‘One of the toughest decisions’ of his life.
“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.”
Shapoor Zadran Calls Time on his International Career 🚨
Afghanistan’s big tall left-arm fast bowler Shapoor Zadran, a key figure in the rise of cricket in Afghanistan, announced his retirement from International cricket. He represented Afghanistan in 80 international matches… pic.twitter.com/46W3B4msHH
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 30, 2025
“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.”
His impressive performance comes from the match against Scotland in Dunedin where he played a crucial role in the country’s first win in a major tournament.
He returned with 4/38 from his 10 overs to restrict Scotland for 210. Shapoor was the last wicket for the side and contributed an unbeaten final-wicket of 19. He even struck a match winning boundary which took Afghanistan to a famous one wicket win with three balls to spare.
