Coach Collapses Minutes Before Match As Sudden Heart Attack Claims Life Despite CPR Efforts

A tragic moment unfolded just before the scheduled BPL match in Sylhet. The Dhaka Capitals team was preparing to take the field. Suddenly, assistant coach Mahboob Ali Zaki collapsed near the ground. Panic spread instantly among players and staff. Medical personnel rushed to assist without delay. The match atmosphere turned into shock and silence.

Did Immediate Medical Help Save Him?

Team officials and doctors reacted within seconds. Zaki was given CPR on the spot. Cardio pulmonary resuscitation is often life saving during cardiac arrest. After initial efforts, he was rushed by ambulance. He was taken to Al Harmain Hospital in Sylhet. Sadly, doctors declared him dead on arrival. All efforts failed to revive him.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board deeply mourns the passing of Mahbub Ali Zaki (59), Specialist Pace Bowling Coach of the BCB Game Development Department and Assistant Coach of Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 2026.

He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in… pic.twitter.com/p1ImtCNX0G

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) December 27, 2025

How Did BPL And Team React?

The incident deeply shook everyone present at the venue. Players from both teams stood stunned. The Dhaka Capitals camp was emotionally broken. The Bangladesh Premier League atmosphere turned somber. Officials postponed on-field activities temporarily. Cricket fans across Bangladesh expressed grief. The league suffered a painful loss.

What Did Bangladesh Cricket Board Say?

Bangladesh Cricket Board released an official statement on social platform X. BCB confirmed the timing and place of death. The board expressed deep sorrow. It praised Zaki’s contribution to fast bowling development. The board called him a dedicated servant of Bangladesh cricket. Condolences were sent to his family.

Was He Facing Any Health Issues?

Officials clarified that Zaki had no known health complaints. He did not report discomfort earlier that day. This made the incident more shocking. He appeared normal before collapsing. Teammates described him as energetic. Sudden cardiac arrest came without warning. This underlined the unpredictable nature of such tragedies.

Who Was Mahboob Ali Zaki As A Cricketer?

Before coaching, Zaki was a fast bowler. He represented Comilla district in the National Cricket Championship. He also played Dhaka Premier Division League. Prestigious clubs like Abahani and Dhanmondi featured him. His cricketing discipline earned respect. He later transitioned smoothly into coaching. His knowledge remained valuable.

How Big Was His Contribution As Coach?

Zaki joined BCB as a high performance coach in 2008. He focused on nurturing young fast bowlers. Many emerging pacers benefited from his guidance. His methods emphasized fitness and accuracy. He remained committed till his last day. Bangladesh cricket lost a silent architect. His absence will be deeply felt.