Introduction

The cricket world was left stunned when Tamim Iqbal, the former Bangladesh captain, suffered a heart attack during a Dhaka Premier League match on March 24, 2025. The incident occurred at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP) ground in Savar, where Tamim was leading Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club. This shocking turn of events has raised concerns about the health and safety of athletes, particularly in high-intensity sports like cricket.

Background on Tamim Iqbal

Tamim Iqbal, now 36 years old, is a highly decorated cricketer who has been an integral part of Bangladesh's national team. With a career spanning over 16 years, he has accumulated more than 15,000 international runs across all formats—Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Tamim is the only Bangladeshi batsman to have scored centuries in all three international formats, making him one of the most accomplished players in Bangladesh's cricket history.

Career Highlights:

• Tests: 70 matches, scoring 5,134 runs.
• ODIs: 243 matches, accumulating 8,357 runs.
• T20Is: 78 matches, with 1,758 runs.

Tamim announced his retirement from international cricket for the second time in January 2024, following a previous brief retirement in July 2023. Despite his international retirement, Tamim has continued to play domestic cricket, leading his team, Fortune Barishal, to consecutive Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) titles and performing well in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League (DPL).

Incident During the DPL Match

During the match against Shinepukur Cricket Club, Tamim felt chest pain after fielding for only one over in the first innings. Initially, he refused to stay at the hospital after his first visit, intending to return to Dhaka. However, his condition worsened, prompting a second hospital visit where he was diagnosed with a heart attack.

The swift medical response was crucial in saving Tamim's life. The BCB's chief physician, Dr. Debashish Chowdhury, explained that Tamim complained of chest pain and underwent an ECG, which revealed a minor issue initially. However, as his condition deteriorated, he received emergency medical attention.

The match referee, Debabrata Paul, stated that an air ambulance was initially arranged to transport Tamim to Dhaka, but due to his critical condition, it was deemed unsafe to fly him out. He was instead rushed back to the KPJ Specialised Hospital and Nursing Home (formerly Fazilatunnesa Hospital) in Savar for urgent treatment.

Medical Treatment and Recovery

Tamim underwent emergency angioplasty to remove the blockage in his arteries, a procedure that went smoothly according to hospital officials. Following the surgery, Tamim regained consciousness and was under observation in the coronary care unit (CCU) for 48 hours. The swift actions of medical staff at both the ground and the hospital were praised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which closely monitored his health.

Tamim was later transferred to the KPJ Evercare Hospital in Dhaka for further care. On March 28, 2025, he was discharged from the hospital, marking a significant step towards recovery.

Lifestyle Changes Advised

Doctors have emphasized the need for Tamim to make lifestyle changes to ensure a smooth recovery and potentially return to normal life. A medical board is set to meet in three to four months to assess his health and decide on his future in cricket.

Reaction from the Cricket Community

The incident has sent shockwaves through the cricket fraternity. The BCB canceled its scheduled directors' meeting and visited Tamim in the hospital, conveying support for his recovery. Tamim's teammates, including Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, were among those who visited him.

Tamim's condition has drawn widespread sympathy and support from fans and fellow cricketers globally. The national outpouring of concern highlights his standing as a beloved figure in Bangladeshi sports.

Conclusion

Tamim Iqbal's heart attack during the DPL match serves as a stark reminder of the health risks associated with competitive sports. The prompt medical response ensured his immediate survival, but his future in cricket remains uncertain. As he begins his journey towards recovery, the world of cricket will be watching closely, hoping for his return to health and possibly the sport he loves.

Impact on Cricket

This incident underscores the importance of prioritizing players' health and safety in high-intensity sports. Cricket boards worldwide might need to review and enhance their medical protocols for quick response times during emergencies.

Key Points:

• Tamim Iqbal Suffered a Heart Attack: During a DPL match, Tamim experienced severe chest pain and received emergency medical treatment.
• Angioplasty and Recovery: He underwent angioplasty and was later discharged from the hospital, with his cricketing future uncertain.
• Lifestyle Changes: Doctors have advised significant lifestyle changes to aid in his recovery.
• Cricket Community Support: The cricket world has rallied around Tamim, offering support and well wishes for his recovery.