Former Bangladesh cricket captain, Tamim Iqbal, was rushed to the hospital on Monday after suffering a major heart attack during a Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) match in Savar. The 35-year-old, who recently retired from international cricket, was playing for Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club when he complained of chest pain during the first innings of the match.
Tamim, a left-handed batter with an illustrious career, fielded for one over before experiencing discomfort. His condition rapidly worsened, and he was immediately taken to KPJ Specialized Hospital and Nursing Home. Initially, plans were made to airlift him to another hospital, but due to his deteriorating condition, he was returned to the original health facility where doctors diagnosed a blockage in his heart.
Swift Medical Response and Emergency Procedure
According to reports from match referee Debabrata Paul, Tamim was in good spirits when he arrived at the ground and even participated in the toss. However, shortly after feeling unwell, he left the field and made his way to the hospital in his own car. Despite the advice of doctors to stay, Tamim insisted on leaving the hospital and arranged for an air ambulance himself, according to BKSP chief cricket coach Montu Datta.
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The doctors confirmed that Tamim had suffered a heart attack. They quickly performed an angiogram and angioplasty to remove the blockage in his heart. Fortunately, the procedure went smoothly, and Tamim is now under observation. In an official statement, the doctors noted that the quick and efficient coordination between the medical team at BKSP and the hospital played a critical role in ensuring timely treatment.
Tamim Iqbal’s Retirement and Career Legacy
Tamim Iqbal had announced his retirement from international cricket in January 2025, bringing an end to a celebrated career. As one of the finest cricketers Bangladesh has ever produced, Tamim accumulated over 15,000 runs across all formats of the game, including 25 centuries— a record for the most centuries by any Bangladesh batter.
His last international appearance was in September 2023, when Bangladesh faced New Zealand in a 2-0 ODI series defeat at home. Throughout his career, Tamim has been a stalwart of Bangladesh’s cricketing success, admired for his resilience, technique, and leadership.
While the news of his heart attack has left fans and colleagues in shock, the swift medical response and Tamim’s resilient spirit suggest a hopeful recovery.