Tamim undergoes emergency angioplasty following heart attack during Dhaka Premier League match

Tamim Iqbal Undergoes Emergency Angioplasty After Heart Attack During Dhaka League Match

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal suffered a heart attack during a Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League match in Savar on Monday, prompting emergency angioplasty surgery.

Doctors confirmed that Tamim had regained consciousness and was able to speak with a family member following the procedure. He will remain under observation in the coronary care unit (CCU) for 48 hours as his recovery is closely monitored.

Tamim, who was captaining Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club, left the field after just one over due to chest discomfort. He initially visited the nearby KPJ Specialised Hospital and Nursing Home (formerly Fazilatunnesa Hospital), but chose to return to the match venue.

“He seemed fine during the toss,” said BKSP chief cricket coach Montu Dutta. “But after feeling unwell, he went to the hospital. Although the doctors advised him to stay, he left.”

Upon his return to the ground, arrangements were made by a family member for an air ambulance to transport Tamim to Dhaka. However, his condition deteriorated rapidly. The Mohammedan team physiotherapist had to administer CPR on-site before Tamim was rushed back to the KPJ hospital. Doctors ruled out moving him via air ambulance due to his critical state.

Hospital officials said Tamim arrived in severe condition, and tests revealed a blockage in his arteries. Cardiologist Dr. Moniruzzaman Maruf performed an emergency angioplasty. In a press briefing an hour after surgery, the hospital confirmed that Tamim had returned for the second time that day after suffering a heart attack.

“He was in critical condition when he arrived,” said Dr. Rajib Hasan. “It was indeed a heart attack. An angiogram and angioplasty were performed to clear the blockage. The procedure went smoothly, and he is now under observation. Quick coordination between BKSP medics and hospital staff ensured prompt treatment.”

BCB’s chief physician Dr. Debashis Chowdhury later confirmed Tamim had regained consciousness. “His vital signs are improving, which is promising. The hospital informed us that a ring was inserted into one artery while the others are in good condition.”

Following the incident, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) cancelled its scheduled directors’ meeting. BCB president Faruque Ahmed, along with chief executive Nizamuddin Ahmed and director Akram Khan—Tamim’s uncle—visited the hospital.

“We are grateful to the medical team for their swift and efficient response,” said Faruque Ahmed in a statement. “The outpouring of support for Tamim shows how deeply he is valued by the nation. We are in constant contact with the hospital and will provide all necessary support to aid his recovery.”

Later in the day, Tamim received visits from teammates Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Taijul Islam. A crowd of journalists, fans, and well-wishers also gathered at the hospital.

Tamim had announced his international retirement earlier this year but continued to play domestic cricket. He led Fortune Barishal to back-to-back BPL titles last month and had already scored two centuries in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League, with Mohammedan winning six of their eight matches under his leadership.

(Update at GMT 1314: Includes statement from BCB president Faruque Ahmed.)

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