- By Vishal Pushkar
- Wed, 09 Jul 2025 01:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Afghan Umpire Dies: Afghanistan umpire Bismillah Jan Shinwari, who was part of the ICC International Panel Of Umpires, passed away on Monday, 7 July 2025. Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed the news on Tuesday. Being an experienced umpire, Shinwari officiated in 25 ODIs and 21 T20Is. Notably, Shinwari made his debut in international cricket in December 2017, officiating an ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland in Sharjah.
Shinwari Underwent Fat-Removal Surgery In Pakistan
Seyda Jan, Bismillah Jan Shinwari's brother, stated in an interview with TOLO News that he went underwent surgery for fat-removal from his abdominal area. Syeda said, "He got sick and went to Peshawar, saying he wanted to have abdominal fat removed. He was hospitalised for a few days. The surgery was performed, but unfortunately, he passed away at 5 PM after the operation. We brought his body back through Torkham overnight and buried him in our ancestral cemetery in Achin."
Jay Shah, ICC chairman, mourned Bismillah's death. "His contributions to the game were huge, and he will be deeply missed by the cricket community. We are profoundly saddened by this loss and extend our condolences to his family and loved ones," he said in a press statement release by the ICC.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board, too, posted their tribute on Tuesday.
ACB's Condolence and Sympathy Message
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) July 7, 2025
ACB’s leadership, staff, and entire AfghanAtalan family are deeply shocked and saddened by the demise of Bismillah Jan Shinwari (1984 - 2025), a respected member of Afghanistan’s elite umpiring panel.
It is with deep sorrow that we share… pic.twitter.com/BiZrTOLe6m
The Afghanistan Cricket Board also paid tribute to the umpire. "The Afghanistan Cricket Board extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and the entire Afghan cricket fraternity. We pray that the Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him the highest ranks in Jannah and gives patience and strength to his loved ones during this difficult time," a post read on its X handle.