In a shocking turn of events, former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal suffered a heart attack on March 24, 2025, during a match in the Dhaka Premier League. Battling it out for Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club in Savar, Tamim’s ordeal began after he completed just one over in the field.
Initially, it seemed like a manageable situation when Tamim experienced chest pain and left the field for medical consultation. Following his assessment, he returned to the field, but when his condition deteriorated, swift medical intervention became necessary. This led to him being taken to KPJ Specialised Hospital for life-saving procedures.
At the hospital, doctors determined it was indeed a heart attack and performed an emergency angiogram followed by angioplasty to clear a dangerous blockage in his arteries. As news of his condition spread, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) took immediate actions, cancelling its scheduled meeting, with top officials rushing to the hospital.
Faruque Ahmed, the BCB president, applauded the quick response of the medical team, acknowledging the importance of their actions in stabilizing Tamim. He remains a beloved figure in Bangladesh, known not just for his cricket feats but also for being the nation's highest run-scorer in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Post-surgery, Tamim was initially in critical condition but showed signs of improvement as he regained consciousness and could walk with assistance. However, healthcare providers reiterated that the days following the surgery were crucial, and a strict observation period was recommended over the next 48-72 hours.
Social media became a platform for Tamim to convey his heartfelt sentiments to fans, stressing the surprises of life’s fragile nature. "The heartbeat can stop without warning," he typed, calling for prayers and expressing his appreciation for all the support.
Alongside his brother, Nafees Iqbal, and family who stood by his bedside, Tamim received advice to refrain from any physical exertion with a suggested recovery span of at least three months. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the health challenges athletes can face, irrespective of their fitness levels.
Despite retiring in 2023 with an impressive tally of over 15,000 international runs and being the sole Bangladeshi to score centuries across all formats, Tamim Iqbal’s legacy in cricket and the hearts of many remains untouched. The nation watches over him, hoping for a speedy and full recovery.