Tamim Iqbal’s Sudden Heart Attack Stuns Cricket Fans
The world of cricket came to a jolting stop on March 24, 2025, when Tamim Iqbal, one of Bangladesh’s most recognized cricket faces, collapsed during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match. The scene was shocking. Tamim was fielding for Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club at the BKSP ground when he felt an unusual tightness in his chest. At first, he chose to walk off and see a doctor at a nearby hospital, suspecting a minor issue. But just minutes later, his health took a drastic turn for the worse.
Back at the ground, panic spread quickly. Tamim collapsed, and medical staff rushed to his aid. The team’s quick-thinking trainer, Yakub Chowdhury Dalim, immediately started CPR while others called for emergency help. Few things can spread fear across a stadium like seeing a player—especially one of national stature—struggle for life. On-field medics administered defibrillation to restart his heart before Tamim was rushed away for further care.
Tamim was first stabilized at KPJ Specialised Hospital in Savar, then airlifted to KPJ Evercare Hospital in Dhaka for specialized cardiac treatment. Doctors diagnosed a full-fledged heart attack and performed an emergency angioplasty, inserting a stent to open his blocked artery. For the next 48 hours, Tamim remained in the hospital’s coronary care unit (CCU), heavily monitored and surrounded by worried family members.
Road to Recovery and Uncertain Future
News of Tamim’s brush with death sent shockwaves through Bangladesh and cricket circles everywhere. The idea of losing such a central figure was hard to process for many—after all, Tamim is the only Bangladeshi batsman with over 8,000 ODI runs and a vital presence for his club and country. As doctors fought to stabilize his condition, headlines buzzed with concern and prayers for his survival.
Miraculously, Tamim regained consciousness just hours after the surgery. In short video clips and personal messages, he thanked trainer Dalim for his life-saving quick reaction—a heartfelt reminder that sometimes, basic emergency skills make all the difference. Medical experts later confirmed his heart function looked normal after the surgery, but they quickly pointed out that this wasn’t the end of his health story. Tamim was discharged from the hospital on March 28, just four days after the attack, but instructions from the cardiology team were clear: take it slow, rest, and avoid any mental or physical stress.
Cardiologists, including Professor Abdul Wadud Chowdhury from the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, reviewed his progress. They explained that while the immediate danger had passed, anyone who suffers a heart attack this serious must tread very carefully. Risks of complications remain high, and any rush to return could endanger his life. Tamim’s comeback will depend on how his body holds up in the next few months. The medical board will re-examine his heart in another three-to-four months before allowing him to even think about stepping back onto the cricket field.
This episode has already sparked fresh debate about health checks among cricketers. What many don’t realize is that intense international and local schedules can add stress even to players in their prime. Tamim has always been seen as tough and committed, but his experience is a reminder of just how fragile things can get.
For now, Tamim faces the greatest test of his life off the pitch. Fans, teammates, and rivals all wait, hoping for good news. It’s clear—CPR knowledge and fast action from the support staff saved Tamim Iqbal. But as for his cricket days, only time—and his heart—will tell.
