Afghanistan umpire Bismillah Jan Shinwari, a respected name in the cricketing world, has passed away at the age of 41. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the news, stating that Shinwari had been battling illness for a long time.
Born in 1984, Bismillah Jan Shinwari had a notable career as a cricket umpire. He stood in 34 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 26 T20 Internationals (T20Is), representing Afghanistan on the global stage. His consistent performance earned him a place in Afghanistan’s elite umpiring panel.
In addition to international matches, Bismillah Jan Shinwari officiated in 31 First-Class matches, 51 List ‘A’ games, and 96 domestic T20 matches. His deep commitment to cricket made him a beloved figure in Afghan domestic tournaments and leagues.
Shinwari also shared a professional bond with Nepal. He officiated several matches involving the Nepal national team and played a key role in the inaugural edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). His presence and expertise were well appreciated by players and fans alike.
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Afghanistan Cricket Board expressed sorrow over the loss of one of its finest servants. “We are deeply saddened and shocked. Bismillah Jan was a great servant of Afghan cricket. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Afghan cricket community,” the board stated.
Bismillah Jan Shinwari leaves behind a strong legacy in Afghan cricket. His dedication, professionalism, and contribution to the game will be remembered for years to come.
