Bangladesh’s greatest opener, Tamim Iqbal, has been admitted to the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) at KPJ Specialized Hospital and Nursing College in Savar after suffering a heart blockage.
BCB’s chief physician, Debashish Chowdhury, revealed, “It was almost like a massive heart attack for the former Bangladesh captain.”
Tamim fell ill suddenly during a Dhaka Premier League match on Monday. He was playing for Mohammedan Sporting Club against Shinepukur Cricket Club at BKSP’s No. 3 ground in Savar. Despite participating in the toss on time, he couldn’t return to the field for fielding.
Mohammedan official Tarikul Islam Tito confirmed the incident to bdnews24.com, stating, “Tamim’s condition doesn’t look very good at the moment. We arranged a helicopter to take him to Dhaka, but he isn’t in a condition to be airlifted. Treatment is ongoing in Savar.”
Initially, there was a plan to transfer him to Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, but Tito mentioned that it wasn’t possible at the moment.
BCB’s chief physician added, “Tamim was feeling chest pain in the morning, so he was taken to the nearest hospital. Some tests were done, including an ECG, which showed mild issues. He wanted to take an air ambulance to Dhaka because he was feeling uneasy.”
However, on the way back to BKSP, the pain returned. “We called the air ambulance, but the pain worsened, so we rushed him back to the hospital. Tests showed a massive heart attack-like condition. He is under observation now. We will understand better soon,” Chowdhury added.
Monday was supposed to be BCB’s 19th general meeting, but it was postponed upon hearing about Tamim’s health. Several board directors headed to the hospital.
Ring Implanted After Blockage Found
Dhaka Premier League match referee Debabrata Pal confirmed that an angiogram was performed, revealing a heart blockage. “A ring has been implanted, and Tamim is currently in the CCU,” he said.
A doctor from KPJ Specialized Hospital informed that Tamim was given CPR for 20 minutes on his way from the field. Tests later confirmed a 100% blockage in one artery, requiring the ring implant.
“He is now better than he was in the morning. He will remain under observation in the CCU for 24 hours,” the doctor added.
The entire cricket community is hoping for Tamim’s speedy recovery.
