New Delhi: Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran is currently in critical condition at a New Delhi hospital as he battles Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and potentially fatal immune system disorder.

The 38-year-old left-arm pacer has been receiving intensive care in the Indian capital since January. HLH is a condition—more commonly diagnosed in children—in which the immune system becomes severely impaired and hyperactive. This overactive response causes widespread hyperinflammation, resulting in significant damage to vital organs and tissues, including the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and lymph nodes.

A Prolonged Medical Battle

According to his younger brother, Ghamai Zadran, the athlete’s health began to decline last October. Following an initial assessment in Afghanistan, medical professionals recommended that he seek advanced treatment in India.

"It was a very serious infection," Ghamai told ESPNcricinfo. "His whole body was full of the infection, including TB (tuberculosis). It also spread to his brain, which was revealed after MRI and CT scan."

Shapoor initially showed signs of recovery and was discharged from the hospital after his first round of treatment. However, his condition deteriorated approximately 20 days later.

"The doctor said we could drop in for the check-ups frequently. He (Shapoor) was feeling good for about 20 days before he got the infection again. Then we admitted him to the hospital (again)," Ghamai added.

Cricketing Legacy

Shapoor Zadran was a pivotal figure in the rise of Afghan cricket, representing his nation in 44 One Day Internationals and 36 T20 Internationals between 2009 and 2020. He is perhaps best remembered for hitting the winning runs against Scotland in 2015, securing Afghanistan’s first-ever victory in a Cricket World Cup.

With inputs from PTI