Tamim Iqbal's Sudden Health Scare: Heart Attack Strikes During DPL Match

The cricket world was left stunned when Tamim Iqbal, the former captain of Bangladesh's national cricket team, suffered a sudden heart attack during a Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) match. This alarming incident occurred on March 24, 2025, at BKSP Ground in Savar, interrupting a game between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Shinepukur Cricket Club.

While in the first innings, Tamim, aged 36, felt a sharp chest pain. He exited the field immediately for medical attention. Initially treated and sent home, his situation took a turn for the worse, necessitating a second trip to the hospital. There, doctors performed an emergency angioplasty to address a blocked artery. The procedure involved inserting a stent, ensuring the blood flow remained unobstructed. Fortunately, Tamim regained consciousness after surgery and was monitored closely in the coronary care unit for two days.

The magnitude of this incident prompted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to cancel a meeting as President Faruque Ahmed and officials rushed to the hospital to check on Tamim. Fellow Bangladeshi cricketers, including Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, made visits to lend their support. The international cricket community also rallied around him, with figures like Shakib Al Hasan and Yuvraj Singh expressing their heartfelt wishes for his speedy recovery.

Tamim's track records speak for themselves, with an incredible 15,000 runs amassed in international cricket across different formats. This includes numerous centuries scored in Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. His strategic decision to retire from international cricket in January 2023 marked the end of an era, although he continued to play a pivotal role in domestic cricket.

Remarkably, Tamim's heart attack didn't keep him away for long. He made his first public appearance on April 12, 2025, during a DPL match between Mohammedan and Abahani Limited in Dhaka. Before returning, Tamim consulted cardiologists in Singapore to ensure he was fit to play.

This health crisis unfolded during a significant phase in Tamim’s domestic career, as he was leading Mohammedan Sporting Club through an impressive season, having achieved six victories in eight matches. His leadership and performance, which included scoring two centuries, had been driving factors in the team's success.

Tamim Iqbal's swift return to cricket reflects his determination and passion for the sport. His journey through this unexpected chapter highlights the importance of resilience and support from the cricket community in overcoming personal and professional challenges.