Tamim Iqbal's Shocking Medical Emergency during DPL
The cricket world was taken aback when Tamim Iqbal, former Bangladesh captain, collapsed on the field during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match on March 24. The 34-year-old was representing Mohammedan Sporting Club in a much-anticipated clash against Shinepukur Cricket Club. Only one over into fielding, Tamim complained of chest pain that rapidly became severe enough to force his exit from the ground. Players and staff quickly realised this was more than routine discomfort.
The medical response was immediate. Tamim was rushed to KPJ Specialized Hospital, where his condition deteriorated, raising fears among teammates and fans. Plans were momentarily considered to airlift him by helicopter due to the urgency, but on-site doctors quickly ruled out the option because of the risks involved in moving him in such a fragile state. The hospital team administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and delivered a direct current (DC) shock to stabilize his heart before moving him to the high-tech Evercare Hospital in Dhaka for further critical care.
Treatment, Recovery, and Uncertain Return to Cricket
Doctors at Evercare diagnosed Tamim with a heart attack, leading to an emergency angioplasty—a life-saving procedure to restore blood flow to his heart. Cricket fans across Bangladesh and the entire South Asian sporting community were glued to news updates, anxiously following his progress in the intensive care unit.
Remarkably, Tamim’s recovery was steady. After four tense days under close observation, doctors discharged him from the hospital on March 28. Although his heart function is now stable, Tamim’s professional return remains up in the air. His case is being closely watched by Dr. Abdul Wadud Chowdhury, the director of the National Heart Disease Institute. The medical community, especially those tracking athlete health, is paying special attention because heart attacks among fit, international-level cricketers are exceedingly rare.
Athletes under intense physical stress sometimes face unpredictable health challenges. Tamim’s scare has put the spotlight on cardiac risks in sports, a subject often overlooked. The Bangladesh Cricket Board, along with Tamim's team, has stated that a full review by a specialized medical board will decide whether he can safely resume competitive cricket. This board will convene in three to four months, closely analyzing his cardiac recovery and fitness protocols.
For now, Bangladesh’s leading run-scorer in ODIs is not just fighting for a sporting comeback—he’s reminding everyone of the unpredictable fragility behind even the fittest star’s public persona. Teammates, fans, and fellow athletes are rallying behind Tamim, hoping for complete healing, but also recognizing that some games extend far beyond the boundaries of the pitch.
