Tamim Iqbal
Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal suffered a heart attack on Monday during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match, sending shockwaves through the cricketing community.
The 36-year-old was leading Mohammedan Sporting Club in a 50-over match against Shinepukur Cricket Club when he began experiencing chest pain shortly after the toss. Medical personnel were immediately called to the field, and after receiving initial treatment, Tamim was rushed to Fazilatunnesa Hospital in Savar.
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief physician Dr. Debashish Chowdhury confirmed that Tamim had experienced a cardiac episode. “Early tests indicated minor heart complications, but his condition worsened while he was being moved towards a helipad for transport to Dhaka. This led to an immediate return to the hospital, where further evaluations confirmed the severity of the heart attack,” he told AFP.
Currently under close medical supervision, doctors are monitoring Tamim’s condition closely as they work to stabilize him. His family has been informed and is on their way to the hospital. The BCB canceled its scheduled board meeting for the day, with several officials visiting the hospital to check on the veteran cricketer. Team official Tariqul Islam urged fans and well-wishers to pray for Tamim’s swift recovery.
A Storied Career in Bangladesh Cricket
Tamim Iqbal is one of Bangladesh’s most decorated cricketers, having represented his country in 391 international matches across all formats between 2007 and 2023. With over 15,000 international runs to his name, he remains Bangladesh’s highest run-scorer in ODIs and the only player from the country to have scored centuries in all three formats.
International Debut and Rise to Prominence
Tamim made his international debut in 2007 against Zimbabwe and quickly established himself as one of Bangladesh’s most reliable and aggressive opening batsmen. His fearless approach and ability to dominate bowlers played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s rise in world cricket.
Record-Breaking Achievements
- Bangladesh’s Leading ODI Run-Scorer: Tamim has amassed 8,313 runs in 243 ODI matches at an average of 36.62, including 14 centuries and 56 half-centuries.
- Test and T20I Contributions: In T20 Internationals, he scored 1,758 runs in 78 matches, becoming the first Bangladeshi player to score a T20I century. In Test cricket, he accumulated 5,134 runs in 70 matches, including 10 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
- Centuries Across All Formats: Tamim remains the only Bangladeshi batsman to have scored a century in all three formats, a testament to his adaptability and class.
Leadership and Captaincy
Tamim played a vital leadership role in Bangladesh cricket, captaining the team in various formats. As the full-time ODI captain before retiring in 2023, he led Bangladesh to several historic victories, including series wins against top-tier teams like India and South Africa.
World Cup Contributions
A key player in Bangladesh’s World Cup campaigns, Tamim delivered crucial performances in the 2015 and 2019 tournaments. His batting prowess helped Bangladesh secure memorable wins against some of the world’s best cricketing nations.
A Nation Rallies Behind Its Cricketing Icon
Tamim Iqbal’s sudden health scare has left the cricketing fraternity deeply concerned. Messages of support have poured in from fellow cricketers, fans, and sports personalities worldwide. His impact on Bangladesh cricket is undeniable, and as he fights this health battle, an entire nation stands united in hope and prayers for his recovery.
