Sahel Zadran

Sahel Zadran, born on 1st February 1996, in the cricket-infused streets of Kabul, emerged as an emblem of hope and passion for many young cricketers. Known for his thunderous pace and relentless spirit on the field, Zadran's trajectory from a dusty pitch in Afghanistan to international cricket stardom is indeed a saga of dedication and resilience.

Sahel's cricketing journey began in the bustling lanes of his neighbourhood, where he would fiercely bowl with friends until dusk. His raw talent didn't remain hidden for long, and soon, he found himself at the age of 16 as a promising recruit in the Afghanistan Under-19 team. His blistering pace and ability to extract bounce even on placid pitches caught the eyes of selectors. It was only a matter of time before he made his much-anticipated professional debut in 2015.

In his debut series against Australia, Zadran bowled with fiery intent, claiming eight wickets across three matches. This marked the beginning of a career that would see numerous highs. From consistently clocking speeds above 145 km/h to mastering the art of reverse swing, his bowling arsenal became a nightmare for batsmen worldwide. Sahel’s crowning achievement came in 2022 when Afghanistan secured their historic maiden Asia Cup win, with Zadran playing a pivotal role. Claiming 13 wickets across the tournament, he was instrumental in disrupting the middle orders of formidable teams such as India and Pakistan.

Among his memorable matches, the duel against Pakistan in 2021 is often highlighted. Zadran's breathless spell of 5/19 dismantled Pakistan’s chase, securing a dramatic victory. His delivery to bowl out Babar Azam with a yorker was etched into the annals of Afghan cricket folklore.

Zadran is known for his raw speed, unyielding aggression, and strategic use of bouncers and yorkers, making him a formidable force in the death overs. While primarily celebrated for his bowling prowess, Sahel's lower-order batting occasionally contributed crucial runs. His spirited 35-run knock against New Zealand, clinching a last-over win, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion when his team needed him the most.

Throughout his career, Sahel Zadran's unwavering commitment to his craft and his nation’s cricketing future has not only won matches but inspired a generation of aspiring Afghan cricketers, rendering him an icon in his homeland.

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Bowling Stats