Tamim Iqbal’s health update brought a sigh of relief when Dr. Moniruzzaman Maruf stepped out of the CCU (Cardiac Care Unit) at KPJ Specialized Hospital & Nursing College.
“Please, no one should stay here. Keep the area quiet,” requested one of the doctors on duty at the CCU, urging for a calm atmosphere. Within moments, the entire floor was cleared. Tamim Iqbal is currently receiving treatment at this hospital. From Tuesday morning, efforts were made to reduce the crowd around the facility.
Later, stepping out of the CCU, Dr. Moniruzzaman Maruf, who oversaw the stent placement process in Tamim’s heart, shared some reassuring news with the waiting journalists.
“Tamim is doing well now. The good news is that he is walking slowly and is in good spirits. He was moved to the cabin for a short while to meet his family and has since been taken back to the CCU.”
Dr. Moniruzzaman refrained from saying much else at the moment but mentioned that a formal press conference would be held around 12 PM to provide a comprehensive update on Tamim’s condition.
Monday’s scene at the hospital was entirely different. As news of Bangladesh’s greatest opener suffering a heart attack spread, the hospital saw an overwhelming influx of media personnel and fans, causing some disruption to regular operations. As a result, efforts were made from Tuesday morning to keep the CCU and its surroundings clear.
There was notably less crowd at the hospital on Tuesday. No cricket-related personalities were seen visiting either. For now, Tamim’s family members remain by his side.
Before the start of the Dhaka Premier League matches at Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium and BKSP on the same day, prayers were held for Tamim’s swift recovery.
Possibility of Tamim’s Return to the Field
Surviving a life-threatening situation is the greatest relief for now. Discussions about cricket have taken a back seat. However, while updating on Tamim’s latest health condition, the Director-General of the Health Directorate, Professor Abu Jafar, touched upon the topic of Tamim’s possible return to the field.
Tamim Iqbal has stabilized after narrowly escaping death. However, he is not entirely out of danger yet. This is not the time to talk about his cricketing future. Nevertheless, amidst the health-related discussions, it was revealed that he would need at least three months before returning to normal activities and sports.
At the press conference following discussions with Tamim and his family at KPJ Specialized Hospital’s CCU, Professor Abu Jafar provided the latest updates.
After 11 AM, Abu Jafar and the Director of the Heart Disease Institute, Professor Abdul Wadud, visited the hospital. They spent nearly half an hour in the CCU, speaking with Tamim, his mother, wife, and elder brother.
After 24 hours of initial observation, Tamim’s health is showing signs of improvement. Dr. Moniruzzaman Maruf confirmed that Tamim has started walking lightly.
During the press conference, Professor Abu Jafar mentioned that Tamim might be allowed to resume sports activities after three months.
“Certain aspects between a patient and doctor are not suitable for public disclosure. We have provided general guidelines. The next 48 to 72 hours are crucial. To return to normal activities, including sports, he needs three months. He can perform light household activities and walk at home but must primarily rest.”
“Tamim will remain under close observation for the next three months. His health progress or setbacks will determine when a medical board can clear him to resume playing.”
Professor Abdul Wadud also provided updates on Tamim’s condition.
“We conducted an echocardiogram this morning to check the heart’s function. It appears fine, but it could be deceptive. Abnormal heartbeats could still occur.”
“The risk has significantly decreased. The cardiac arrest happened because a major artery was blocked, cutting off oxygen supply and causing abnormal heartbeats. Now that the artery has been cleared, the situation is better.”
Upon his first arrival at KPJ Hospital on Monday, Tamim was preparing to be airlifted to Dhaka. However, he suffered a massive heart attack before departure, necessitating an emergency return to the hospital.
After successfully placing a stent in his heart, doctors advised a 48-hour observation period. However, discussions about transferring Tamim to Dhaka began after just 24 hours. Tamim himself is eager to move to Dhaka.
Professor Abdul Wadud highlighted the potential risks of such a transfer.
“There is still a slight risk. That’s why we advised him to stay for 48 to 72 hours, as this period is critical. To avoid complications, it is best to speak less and rest more. Once stable, he can consider moving to a better rehabilitation facility.”
Later, the Director-General of the Health Directorate advised keeping Tamim under observation at the current hospital for 48 to 72 hours to avoid any risks.
“Dr. Faruq, a cardiac surgeon from Heart Foundation and a relative of Tamim, will discuss the matter with the family. Moving at this point is risky. We have discussed this with Tamim too. It is natural to want the best treatment available.”
“However, we discussed how safe the move would be. Although it is a family decision, not following medical advice could have consequences that we cannot predict.”
After 1 PM, Tamim’s uncle and BCB director Akram Khan arrived at the hospital with his wife. They were seen conversing with Tamim’s wife and elder brother for quite some time. For now, there are no plans to transfer Tamim elsewhere.
At the press conference, Professor Abu Jafar emphasized the importance of monitoring Tamim at the same hospital.
“Not all conditions appear in initial tests. The ECG done initially showed no changes. The echocardiogram done this morning was also normal. But anything can happen at any time. We discussed this seriously with the family.”
“Ultimately, it’s up to the family’s decision. We cannot force anyone. Alhamdulillah, his condition has improved. God forbid if anything bad happens, the institution would be held accountable. We are not discussing that possibility. We remain very positive.”
