Shekil Zadran

Born on 1st January 1997, Shekil Zadran emerged from the cricketing heartlands of Afghanistan, driven by a passion for the game that would see him rise to international fame. His journey began on the dusty pitches of Kabul, where as a young boy, Shekil honed his cricketing skills. With a cricket bat in his right hand, he quickly became known for his natural flair at the crease, while his right-arm fast-medium bowling provided his team with crucial breakthroughs in tense moments.

Shekil's dedication paid off when, as a teenager, he was selected for Afghanistan's Under-19 squad. His talent was undeniable, showcasing a technique that combined elegance with aggression—a dual style that puzzled many a bowler. Rather than fitting the mould of traditional Afghan players who favoured brute force, Shekil had a knack for finding gaps with precision and timing, making him a top contender in the domestic circuit.

The breakthrough came in 2018, when Zadran made his professional debut for Afghanistan in a One Day International against a formidable Indian side. It wasn’t long before he became a stalwart in the national team, known for his ability to play match-defining innings under pressure. One of his most memorable performances came against Pakistan in 2020, where his century led Afghanistan to a historic series win, etching that victory into the annals of their cricketing history.

Alongside his batting prowess, Shekil's occasional bursts with the ball added another feather to his cap. Although not a regular bowler, his right-arm fast-medium deliveries have occasionally stunned opponents and turned critical matches in Afghanistan’s favour. A particularly gripping spell against Bangladesh in 2021 saw him snag crucial wickets, sealing a dramatic win for Afghanistan.

Throughout his career, Shekil Zadran has become synonymous with consistency and resilience. His rivalry with India’s top bowlers has been especially entertaining, often transforming routine matches into gripping contests watched by millions. Beyond the stats and highlights, his contribution to Afghan cricket extends to his inspiring presence on and off the field, symbolising perseverance amidst challenges. Each inning, partnership, and celebration serves as a reminder of his journey from Kabul’s streets to the world stage, with Shekil Zadran continuing to write his legacy in cricket history.

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Bowling Stats