Tamim Iqbal Recovering After Heart Attack During Domestic Match

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal is reportedly recovering after suffering a severe heart attack during a domestic match on Monday. The incident occurred while Tamim was leading Mohammedan Sporting Club in a 50-over fixture of the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League.

EMERGENCY SITUATION ON THE FIELD

During the match, the 36-year-old experienced intense chest pain, prompting immediate medical attention. He was swiftly rushed to the hospital, where doctors found him in critical condition. According to Enamul Haque, the physiotherapist for Mohammedan Sporting Club, the quick response was crucial in saving his life.

"We had to rush him to the hospital right away, and thankfully we acted in time," Haque told AFP.

RECOVERY AND SUPPORT FROM THE CRICKET COMMUNITY

Hospital officials revealed that Tamim required surgery to have stents inserted to clear a blockage in one of his arteries. However, after the procedure, the cricketer showed signs of improvement, regaining consciousness and even speaking to his family members. According to club official Tariqul Islam, Tamim was also able to walk briefly within the hospital.

"He is doing better now. He has talked to his family and even managed to walk for a short time," Islam confirmed.

The news of Tamim's health emergency was met with an outpouring of support from the cricket world. Longtime teammate Shakib Al Hasan posted on social media, urging fans to pray for Tamim's speedy recovery: "Please pray that my brother Tamim recovers quickly and returns to the game!"

MESSAGES OF ENCOURAGEMENT FROM GLOBAL CRICKET STARS

The timing of the incident coincided with Shakib's 38th birthday, a day he acknowledged with mixed emotions, as he refrained from celebrating due to Tamim's situation. 

Indian cricket legend Yuvraj Singh also shared his support, writing: "You’ve faced tough opponents before and come out stronger, this will be no different. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong."

TAMIM’S ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER

Tamim Iqbal has had a remarkable career, representing Bangladesh in 391 international matches across various formats from 2007 to 2023. As the country’s one-day captain for several years, he played a pivotal role in Bangladesh cricket's growth. Tamim is also the only Bangladeshi cricketer to score centuries in all three formats of the game. His impressive career includes more than 15,000 runs and countless contributions to the team’s success.

As Tamim continues his recovery, the cricket community remains hopeful for his return to the sport.