Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has died after a prolonged illness a day before his 39th birthday.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday “with profound grief and deep sorrow.”

“Shapoor Zadran was one of the foundation-laying figures of Afghanistan cricket, whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment played a vital role in the rise and development of the game in our country.”

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Zadran was suffering from a rare disease which affected his immune system.

He was being treated at a hospital in New Delhi since January.

The 1.88-meter (6-foot-2) fast bowler took 80 wickets in 44 one-day internationals and 36 Twenty20s while playing international cricket from 2009-20.

His best performance came at the 2015 ODI World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in which he was the leading Afghanistan wicket-taker with 10.

He also played in four T20 World Cups and took nine wickets in nine games.

Zadran’s career-best figures of 4-24 in ODIs came on debut against the Netherlands in 2009.

He made his T20 debut against Ireland in February 2010 and his best performance was 3-40 against Bangladesh in 2018.

“Shapoor served Afghanistan cricket with honour, courage, and pride,” the ACB said.

“His efforts in the service of the national team will never be forgotten.”

Tributes were flowing for the cricket pioneer after news broke of his tragic death.

Prominent cricket commentator Alan Wilkins: “Rest in Peace Shapoor Zadran. A true warrior who fought so bravely on and off the cricket field.”