Tamim Iqbal’s Medical Emergency on the Field
Bangladesh's cricket fans woke up to a genuine scare when Tamim Iqbal, the country’s legendary opening batsman and ex-captain, suffered a heart attack right on the field. On March 24, 2025, during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) clash between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Shinepukur Cricket Club, Tamim suddenly clutched his chest while fielding. Players and medical staff rushed in as he signaled distress, setting off a chain of urgent decisions and rapid responses that would keep his hopes of recovery alive.
Initial attempts to move Tamim quickly from the stadium with a helicopter didn’t work out—time was critical. He was instead transported by road to KPJ Specialized Hospital in Savar. There, doctors discovered a blocked artery and didn’t waste a second, performing an angioplasty and inserting a stent. With the immediate risk under control, Tamim was moved to Dhaka’s KPJ Evercare Hospital for specialized cardiac care. This prolonged hospital journey included intensive care, CPR, and electric shocks to stabilize his heart rhythm. For anyone who grew up watching Tamim batter world-class bowlers, the news felt surreal and worrying.
Recovery, Support and What Comes Next
For four anxious days, Tamim remained in the ICU as fans, teammates, and an entire nation refreshed their news feeds for updates. On March 28, the moment of relief came: Tamim had stabilized and was discharged from the hospital. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was quick to announce the good news, highlighting that the angiogram had been successful and thanking doctors, nurses, and the fans who sent countless messages of support.
But this wasn’t just a scare; it was a wake-up call. Doctors have reported that Tamim’s heart is functioning normally now, but they’re not taking chances. He’s on strict medical watch and set for a comprehensive review in three to four months. Only then will specialists clear—or block—any hopes of his return to professional cricket. The cricket board has stressed how vital proper rehabilitation and monitoring are, especially for an athlete whose life has revolved around intense physical strain for decades.
Tamim himself spoke out after his discharge, sounding both grateful and grounded. In a heartfelt message, he thanked his supporters for rallying around him, making it clear how much public encouragement meant during those long days in intensive care. With public interest still riding high, his story is already sparking conversations about athlete heart health across Bangladesh’s clubs and academies—if it can happen to Tamim, it can happen to anyone.
As fans wait for proper medical clearance on his cricketing future, Tamim’s case is serving as a stark reminder that even heroes are vulnerable. For now, his immediate goal isn’t hitting another century—it’s simply taking the next few months step by step, with doctors watching and a nation hoping.