Bangladesh cricket was left in shock on Saturday after Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki collapsed and died moments before his team’s opening match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2026 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Zaki, 59, collapsed suddenly on the ground during pre-match preparations, just minutes before the scheduled start of the fixture between Dhaka Capitals and Rajshahi Warriors. Team staff and on-field medical personnel immediately administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before he was rushed by ambulance to a nearby hospital.
Collapsed during pre-match preparations
Despite swift medical attention, Zaki was declared dead at Al Haramain Hospital. Officials at the venue said he had not complained of any health issues earlier in the day, making the incident all the more devastating for players, officials and spectators present at the stadium.
The match went ahead as scheduled following discussions with match officials, with players, coaches and umpires observing a minute’s silence in Zaki’s memory before the toss.
Bangladesh Cricket Board mourns loss
In an official statement, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of Mahbub Ali Zaki, who also served as Specialist Pace Bowling Coach with the BCB Game Development Department.
“He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in Sylhet at around 1.00 pm. His dedication and invaluable contribution to the development of fast bowling and Bangladesh cricket will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude,” the statement said.
The BCB extended condolences to Zaki’s family, friends, colleagues and the wider cricketing fraternity.
Cricket fraternity in mourning
News of Zaki’s collapse spread quickly across the cricket community, with players and officials from several BPL teams, including Sylhet Titans, Noakhali Express and Chattogram Royals, rushing to the hospital in a show of solidarity.
Zaki was widely respected in Bangladesh cricket circles, particularly for his role in mentoring fast bowlers. He gained national prominence after working closely with Taskin Ahmed when the pacer’s bowling action came under scrutiny during the 2016 Men’s T20 World Cup in India.
Career and legacy
A former fast bowler, Zaki represented Comilla district in the National Cricket Championship and played for Abahani Limited, one of Bangladesh’s most successful clubs, in the Dhaka Premier League. Over the years, he transitioned into coaching, earning recognition for his technical knowledge and commitment to nurturing young talent.
His sudden passing has left a void in Bangladesh cricket, with tributes continuing to pour in from former players, coaches and fans across the country