Dhaka Capitals assistant coach passes away after collapsing on field ahead of BPL match

New Delhi: Dhaka Capitals’ assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki passed away at the age of 59 after collapsing on the field at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium just a few minutes before the start of their Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) clash against Rajshahi Warriors in Sylhet on Saturday, December 27.

Medical staff immediately rushed to provide emergency CPR on the field before rushing him to a nearby hospital via ambulance, where he was declared dead at around 1:00 PM. The incident occurred during the Dhaka Capitals warm-up session at the ground just around 20 minutes before the scheduled start of the match.

Also Read

"Somewhere else in the world, there"d be hell on": Australia, England captains criticise MCG pitch after 2-day finish

Ashes: England pack the punch on Boxing Day Test for first win in Australia in 15 years

Australia all out for 132, England chase 175-run target in see-saw Boxing Day Test

Players from both sides and the coaching staff were present on the field when the assistant coach suddenly fell to the ground, prompting immediate concern. The exact reason for his collapse was not clearly disclosed by officials or the health workers, but a cardiac arrest or heart attack is suspected. It is also important to note that earlier, Zaki didn't complain about any prior health issues.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) released a statement after the passing of Mahbub Ali Zaki, saying that the assistant coach passed away around 1 PM, and his contribution to the development of fast bowling will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude.

"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," BCB said in a statement.

"He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in Sylhet at around 1:00 PM (afternoon). Mahbub Ali Zaki’s dedication and invaluable contribution to the development of fast bowling and Bangladesh cricket will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude," the statement added.

Add TV9 English As A Trusted Source

The Bangladesh Cricket Board also extended its deepest condolences to Zaki's family, friends, and colleagues. The players of the Dhaka Capitals and Rajshahi Warriors observed a minute's silence during the match.