NEW DELHI: Shapoor Zadran, widely regarded as one of the early driving forces behind Afghanistan’s ascent in international cricket, is receiving treatment in a hospital in New Delhi, where doctors say he is in critical condition. His family has launched an urgent appeal for blood donations, requesting support from those who can help save his life.
The former left-arm fast bowler is battling Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare but potentially fatal immune disorder. On Wednesday, his younger brother, Ghamai Zadran, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram to seek assistance and prayers for the Afghan cricket figure.
“My brother, national hero Shapoor Zadran, is currently in a worrying health situation,” Ghamai wrote. “With your prayers, we stand by our national hero. Due to a deficiency and an urgent requirement, he is in critical need of blood. If any friends are currently living in New Delhi, India, and have blood group A positive (+A), please kindly consider donating it to our national hero.”
HLH is described as a condition in which the body’s immune system turns against healthy organs and tissues. That can trigger intense inflammation and cause serious harm to vital internal areas, including the bone marrow, liver and spleen. The family stated that Shapoor first became unwell last October, and after consultations and examinations, doctors eventually diagnosed him with stage four HLH.
Following medical guidance from Kabul, the family brought Shapoor to India for specialised care earlier this year. He reached Delhi on January 18 and was immediately admitted to intensive care.
Ghamai had previously shared that the decision to travel was driven by advice from a doctor in Afghanistan. “Our doctor in Afghanistan advised us to come to India. Everyone said the treatment here is very good,” he said in an earlier statement.
Since then, the Afghanistan cricket community has rallied around Shapoor. Cricketers including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Asghar Afghan have reportedly stayed in close contact with the family as they seek support during his treatment.
Despite the seriousness of his illness, Ghamai said Shapoor is still showing the same determination that made him a respected presence on the field. “He’s fighting very hard, just like he did in cricket. He never complains about pain or difficulty,” he added.
