Daijiworld Media Network – Kabul

Kabul, Jul 9: Bismillah Jan Shinwari, a respected member of the ICC International Panel of Umpires from Afghanistan, passed away at the age of 41 on Monday night. His funeral was held the following day in his hometown, Achin district of Nangarhar province.

Shinwari, who made his international umpiring debut in 2017 during an ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland in Sharjah, went on to officiate in 34 ODIs, 26 T20Is, and over 170 domestic matches, earning wide recognition in the cricketing world.

According to a report by Tolo News, Shinwari had travelled to Peshawar for abdominal surgery, but tragically passed away after the procedure. “He was hospitalised for a few days and underwent surgery, but he passed away at 5 PM. We brought his body back through Torkham and buried him in our ancestral cemetery,” said his brother, Seyda Jan.

He is survived by five sons and seven daughters.

The cricketing world mourned his loss, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah stating, “His contributions to the game were huge, and he will be deeply missed by the cricket community.”

The Afghanistan Cricket Board also offered its condolences, writing on X: “We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him the highest ranks in Jannah and gives patience and strength to his loved ones during this difficult time. Bismillah Jan Shinwari will always remain in our hearts and thoughts.”