Heart Attack on the Field: A Frightening Turn for Tamim Iqbal
In an alarming incident that highlighted the health risks faced by professional athletes, former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal suffered a heart attack during a Dhaka Premier League match on March 24, 2025. Tamim, 36, was leading the Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club when he began experiencing chest pain right after the match toss. Despite the gravity of the situation, swift medical action was taken.
The first response involved emergency treatment including CPR, a critical step administered by his trainer, Yakub Chowdhury Dalim, that likely saved his life. This was followed by an angioplasty procedure to address a blockage in his artery, a necessary intervention to stabilize his condition. Initially airlifted to a local hospital, he was later transferred to the KPJ Evercare Hospital in Dhaka for comprehensive care.
From Recovery to the Future: What's Next for Tamim?
After the successful medical procedures, Tamim's heart function seemed to return to normal, according to Dr. Abdul Wadud Chowdhury. However, doctors have recommended careful monitoring as he continues to recover. Discharged on March 28, Tamim's prospects for returning to cricket will depend on a medical board's assessment a few months down the line.
Having recently retired from international cricket in January 2025 after previously reconsidering a similar decision in 2023, Tamim’s career has been marked by more than just records. As Bangladesh's highest ODI run-scorer with 14 centuries and 243 matches under his belt, his potential absence from the field raises concerns not just about his own health, but about the wellbeing of athletes in high-stress environments.
Experts such as Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary point out that athletes are increasingly susceptible to cardiovascular issues due to factors like genetic predispositions, dehydration, and the pressures of training. The occurrence of Tamim's heart attack is a sobering reminder of these risks.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been closely monitoring Tamim's recovery and, as noted by its president Faruque Ahmed, they have lauded the immediate medical response. The incident has sparked a wider discussion on the need for robust health checks and lifestyle adjustments for players, ensuring they remain safe even amidst rigorous sporting demands.
