Tamim Iqbal, 36, gets angioplasty after heart attack while fielding

The cricketing fraternity prayed for the recovery of Tamim Iqbal, the former Bangladesh captain who suffered a heart attack during a Dhaka Premier League match in Savar on Monday, following which he underwent emergency angioplasty. A Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) spokesperson said Tamim has regained consciousness and spoken to a family member.

Now 36 and arguably the finest Bangladesh opener ever across formats, Tamim was leading Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club in a league game but fielded for just one over of the game’s first innings. After feeling discomfort in his chest, he left the field and went to the KPJ Specialised Hospital and Nursing Home nearby to see doctors.

Cardiologist Dr Moniruzzaman Maruf performed Tamim's surgery, the hospital said. He will remain in the coronary care unit (CCU) for the next 48 hours of the hospital for doctors to monitor his recovery.

Yuvraj Singh, former Indian stalwart, took to his X handle to send him recovery wishes. ‘’Sending my prayers and wishes to Tamim Iqbal and his family. You’ve faced tough opponents before and come out stronger, this will be no different. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong, champion @Tamimofficial28,’’ Yuvi said.

Dr Debashis Chowdhury, the BCB chief physician, confirmed later that Tamim had regained consciousness. ‘’Tamim Iqbal has regained consciousness. His vital signs are improving so we also hope that his overall health will also get better in the next 24 hours. The hospital has briefed you that they have put a ring (stent) in one of his arteries. The other arteries are healthy.’’

BCB cancelled their scheduled directors’ meeting soon after they heard of Tamim’s news. President Faruque Ahmed rushed to the hospital alongside chief executive Nizamuddin Ahmed and director Akram Khan, a former international and Tamim’s uncle. Later in the afternoon, Tamim’s club teammates and erstwhile national team colleagues Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam visited him.

Having confirmed his international retirement in January this year, Tamim has continued to play domestic cricket. He led the Fortune Barishal franchise to a second successive BPL title last month. He had already struck two centuries in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League, having now led Mohammedans to six wins in eight outings.