What Happened to Dhaka Capitals' Assistant Coach Mahbub Ali Zaki?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a tragic turn of events, Dhaka Capitals' assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki died suddenly before a crucial match. His untimely passing has left a significant mark on the Bangladesh cricket community, prompting heartfelt tributes from players and officials.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic loss: Mahbub Ali Zaki's sudden death shocked the cricket community.
- Medical emergency: Immediate CPR attempted but was unsuccessful.
- Legacy: Zaki's contributions to fast bowling in Bangladesh will be remembered.
- Tributes: Players and officials observed a minute's silence in his honor.
Sylhet, Dec 27 (NationPress) Mahbub Ali Zaki, the assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, tragically passed away on Saturday after suddenly collapsing at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium just moments before his team's first match in the Bangladesh Premier League against Rajshahi Warriors.
Medical personnel and team staff quickly performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) after Zaki, aged 59, fell during pre-match preparations. He was transported by ambulance to Al Haramain Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The match continued as scheduled, with players, coaches, and match officials observing a minute of silence in honor of Zaki. The Bangladesh Cricket Board expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Mahbub Ali Zaki, who served as the Specialist Pace Bowling Coach of the BCB Game Development Department and as the assistant coach for Dhaka Capitals in the BPL T20 2026.
“He died on December 27, 2025, in Sylhet around 1:00 PM,” the BCB stated. “His commitment and significant contributions to the advancement of fast bowling and Bangladesh cricket will be honored with great respect and appreciation.”
The sudden incident left everyone at the stadium in shock, with team officials noting that Zaki had not reported any health concerns prior to the collapse. Players from various BPL teams, including Sylhet Titans, Noakhali Express, and Chattogram Royals, rushed to the hospital as news of the tragedy spread throughout the cricketing community in Bangladesh.
Zaki became well-known in Bangladeshi cricket after collaborating closely with fast bowler Taskin Ahmed, particularly when Taskin's bowling action was scrutinized during the Men’s T20 World Cup in India in 2016.
During his playing career, Zaki was a fast bowler representing Comilla district in the National Cricket Championship and played for Abahani Limited, one of the most successful clubs in Bangladesh, in the Dhaka Premier League.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this tragic incident with sensitivity. Mahbub Ali Zaki's unexpected death has not only shocked his team but the entire cricketing community. His legacy in developing fast bowling talent in Bangladesh will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Mahbub Ali Zaki die?
Mahbub Ali Zaki collapsed suddenly at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium shortly before the Bangladesh Premier League match and was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital.
What was Mahbub Ali Zaki's role in cricket?
He was the assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals and served as a Specialist Pace Bowling Coach in the BCB Game Development Department.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on December 27, 2025, just before the opening match of the Bangladesh Premier League.
What was the reaction from the cricket community?
The Bangladesh Cricket Board and many players from other teams expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Zaki's contributions to cricket.
What was Zaki known for in his coaching career?
He was known for his work with fast bowlers, notably assisting Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 Men’s T20 World Cup.
