Tamim Iqbal, a prominent figure in Bangladesh cricket, faced a terrifying ordeal when he suffered a heart attack during a match in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League on March 24, 2025. This unexpected medical emergency unfolded while he was captaining the Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club at the BKSP ground in Savar.
In an intense moment on the field, the 35-year-old began to feel chest discomfort. Initially seeking help at KPJ Specialised Hospital, the situation rapidly deteriorated, leading to a dramatic turn of events. His condition became critical enough to warrant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) right on the field—a move that would prove to be lifesaving.
Swift action from Tamim's trainer, Yakub Chowdhury Dalim, performing timely CPR, provided the crucial intervention needed. Subsequently, Tamim was taken back to the hospital for emergency angioplasty to address a blocked artery, a procedure performed by Dr. Moniruzzaman Maruf. The significance of this rapid medical intervention cannot be overstated, as Dr. Rajib Hasan highlighted the importance of timely action in saving lives.
Post-surgery, Tamim's condition stabilized, and he spent 48 hours in the coronary care unit. His release on March 29 was met with relief and gratitude towards the medical staff and supporters, including high-profile visits from his teammates and officials from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
This harrowing experience comes just months after Tamim's retirement from international cricket in January 2025. With a stellar career boasting 15,192 runs and 25 centuries over 387 international matches, Tamim remains a cherished icon in Bangladeshi sport. His recent performances in the domestic league, which include leading Mohammedan to six victories in eight matches, underscore his ongoing passion and influence in cricket.
During the match when the incident took place, there were considerations to airlift him to Dhaka. However, due to the urgency of his condition, the decision was made to proceed with the surgery locally. The BCB, which canceled a directors' meeting in light of the event, dispatched members including president Faruque Ahmed and CEO Nizamuddin Ahmed to show their support.
While Tamim now faces a period of recovery, this close call serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of health crises, even among professional athletes. It underscores the invaluable role of quick-thinking actions and medical readiness in such high-stakes environments. With his formidable contribution to cricket, Tamim's story resonates deeply, reminding everyone of the fragility of life, regardless of prior achievements.
