A FORMER Essex cricketer was rushed to hospital and placed on life support after suffering a heart attack during a match.
Tamim Iqbal, Bangladesh's record ODI run-scorer, was captaining Mohammedan Sporting club in their Dhaka Premier League fixture against Shinepukur when he complained of chest pains after initially taking the field.
Plans to transport the 36-year-old opener in a helicopter were abandoned as his condition deteriorated and he was instead taken for immediate treatment at a closer facility.
Tamim got selected to play for Essex in the NatWest T20 blast in 2017 but left the tournament for personal reasons.
A statement from the Bangladesh Cricket Board read: “Tamim Iqbal Khan suffered a cardiac arrest this morning at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP).
“Tamim received immediate emergency medical treatment after being transferred to the nearby KPJ Specialized Hospital, where he underwent a successful angiogram procedure to address a blockage in one of the arteries of his heart. He is currently under close observation at the hospital’s coronary care unit.”
BCB president Faruque Ahmed, who has reportedly visited the batter in hospital after cancelling a board meeting, said: “We are very thankful to all the medics and specialists for their swift actions in this critical situation. The outpouring of concern for Tamim reflects how much he is loved and appreciated by the nation.
“The BCB is closely monitoring his health and continues to remain in contact with the hospital’s medical team. The board is committed to providing every support and assistance to ensure Tamim’s swift recovery.”
In an update, Ahmed revealed to Sportstar that Tamim is "feeling slightly better now" and is no longer on life support.
He said: "He had a massive heart attack, but now he is slightly better. With the effort of our doctors, he regained consciousness and is slightly better now.
"Now, he’s not on life support. Our doctors are taking optimum care of him."
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