Afghanistan cricketer Hazratullah Zazai is going through a heartbreaking time following the tragic passing of his two-year-old daughter. The devastating news was confirmed by his teammate, Karim Janat, who shared a heartfelt message on social media. Janat expressed his deep sorrow and extended his condolences to Zazai and his family, urging everyone to keep them in their prayers.
Zazai, who was not included in Afghanistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, has been an integral part of the national team since making his international debut in 2016 against the UAE. The explosive left-handed batter has played 16 ODIs, scoring 361 runs, and 45 T20Is, accumulating 1,161 runs.
Karim Janat’s Emotional Tribute to Zazai
The Afghanistan cricket community has united to support Zazai during this difficult time, with several players sending messages of sympathy. Karim Janat, in particular, expressed profound grief over the loss of Zazai’s daughter. Taking to social media, he described Zazai as a “close friend like a brother” and conveyed his condolences.
“I am deeply saddened to share that my close friend like a brother, Hazratullah Zazai, has lost his daughter. My heart aches for him and his family as they go through this incredibly tough time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. My deepest condolences to Hazratullah Zazai and his family,” Janat wrote in an emotional post.
Zazai’s Career and Afghanistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Campaign
Hazratullah Zazai has made a name for himself in international cricket with his powerful batting. He gained worldwide recognition in 2018 when he hit six sixes in an over against Abdullah Mazari while playing for Kabul Zwanan in the Afghanistan Premier League. He also holds the second-highest individual score in T20I history, having smashed 162 runs off 62 balls against Ireland in Dehradun.
Despite his remarkable performances, Zazai has not played for Afghanistan in 2025. His last appearance was in a T20I series against Zimbabwe in December 2024.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s journey in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 ended in disappointment as they failed to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led team suffered a heavy defeat against South Africa but managed a narrow win against England. Their final match against Australia was washed out, leaving them third in the group standings. South Africa and Australia advanced to the semi-finals.
Despite the setback, several Afghan cricketers, including Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Karim Janat, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, will be seen in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 after securing contracts in the mega auction.
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