Shocking! Cricket coach collapsed on field and passed away ahead of match

A wave of grief swept through the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Saturday after Mahbub Ali Zaki, assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, collapsed on the field and passed away. According to local media reports, the 59-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest.

The tragic incident occurred in Sylhet moments before a BPL match, as Dhaka Capitals and Rajshahi Warriors were warming up. Zaki suddenly fell to the ground, prompting immediate concern. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but doctors were unable to save him.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed deep sorrow over the loss, paying tribute to Zaki’s long-standing contribution to the sport. In a statement posted on X, the board said that Mahbub Ali Zaki was a specialist pace bowling coach in the BCB’s Game Development Department and was serving as assistant coach to Dhaka Capitals during the BPL T20 2026 season. The BCB confirmed that he passed away on December 27, 2025, at around 1:00 pm in Sylhet.

“Mahbub Ali Zaki will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude for his invaluable contribution to Bangladesh cricket,” the board said, adding that it extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire cricketing fraternity during this time of immense loss.

As a mark of respect, players from both teams observed a minute’s silence during the innings break. Dhaka Capitals also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing the loss as irreparable and expressing solidarity with Zaki’s bereaved family.

Mahbub Ali Zaki’s sudden passing has left Bangladesh cricket in mourning, with tributes pouring in for a coach remembered for his dedication, passion and lasting impact on the game.

By EP Web Desk