NEW DELHI: Shapoor Zadran, a pioneer in Afghanistan's rise in international cricket, is currently fighting for his life in a New Delhi hospital. His family has urgently appealed for blood donations for the former left-arm pacer, who is suffering from Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and life-threatening immune disorder.
Family's Urgent Plea
On Wednesday, his younger brother, Ghamai Zadran, shared an emotional message on Instagram, requesting help for the former Afghan star. “My brother, national hero Shapoor Zadran, is currently in a concerning health condition,” Ghamai wrote. “With your prayers, we stand by our national hero. Due to a deficiency and urgent need, he is in critical need of blood. If any friends are residing in New Delhi, India, and have blood group A positive (+A), please kindly do not hesitate to donate this to our national hero.”
Understanding HLH
HLH is a condition that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy organs and tissues, leading to severe inflammation and damage to the bone marrow, liver, and spleen. According to the family, Shapoor first fell ill last October before doctors later diagnosed him with stage four HLH. After medical advice in Kabul, the family brought Shapoor to India earlier this year for specialized treatment. He arrived in Delhi on January 18 and was immediately admitted to intensive care.
“Our doctor in Afghanistan advised us to come to India. Everyone said the treatment here is very good,” Ghamai had earlier told TimesofIndia.com.
Support from Cricket Fraternity
The Afghanistan cricket fraternity has since rallied around the former pacer. Cricketers including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Asghar Afghan have remained in close touch with the family. Despite the serious condition, Ghamai said his brother continues to show the same fighting spirit he displayed on the field. “He’s fighting very hard, just like he did in cricket. He never complains about pain or difficulty,” he added.
Shapoor Zadran is remembered as one of the key figures in Afghanistan's cricketing journey, having played a crucial role in the team's early successes. His current battle has brought together fans and players alike, all hoping for his recovery.
