Dhaka Capitals were hit by a health scare before their Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) fixture when assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki collapsed ahead of the match against Rajshahi Royals.
Zaki was quickly taken to the hospital from the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium for medical attention ahead of the game.
Zaki had been fully involved with Dhaka Capitals in the days leading up to their BPL opener. He also spoke about the team’s preparation and took part in pre-match drills on the day of the game. However, during the final preparations, he suddenly collapsed on the field.
Immediate medical help was provided, including CPR, before he was taken to the hospital by ambulance, turning a routine match day into a worrying moment for the team.
Mahbub Ali Zaki Became Unwell During Practice – Dhaka Capitals
In an official statement, Dhaka Capitals confirmed that assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki collapsed during a training session just before their match preparations began. The Capitals assured that more details would be shared after doctors complete their medical assessment.
“Dhaka Capitals’ assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki became unwell during practice and collapsed on the ground. He was given CPR immediately and rushed to the hospital. Further updates will be shared after medical examinations,” the statement read.
Mahbub Ali Zaki’s Sudden Death Shocks the Cricketing Fraternity
However, Mahbub Ali Zaki passed away after collapsing during pre-match preparations, a development confirmed by Debashish Chowdhury to Daily Sun. Officials said that he suddenly fell to the ground, and despite receiving immediate medical attention, he could not survive.
“Mahbub Ali Zaki has passed away. I am unable to say anything more at this moment,” Chowdhury said as quoted by Daily Sun.
The exact cause of his collapse has not been officially confirmed, though a cardiac arrest or heart attack is suspected. Those present noted that Zaki had not reported any prior health concerns, making the incident all the more shocking for the team and the wider Bangladesh cricket community.
Mahbub Ali Zaki and His Career as a Coach in Bangladesh Cricket
Over the years, Mahbub Ali Zaki played a key role in developing the country’s pace resources. Zaki served in several important roles, including as the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s National Specialist Bowling Coach, working closely with players at the National Cricket Academy in Mirpur.
He was also the bowling coach of the Bangladesh Under-19 side that lifted the ICC Under-19 World Cup in 2020, a major milestone for the country. At the franchise level, Zaki worked as assistant coach with Chittagong Vikings in the 2017 BPL season before joining Dhaka Capitals in 2025.
He was a member of the Bowling Action Review Committee, helping domestic bowlers fix suspect actions and continue their careers. He also played a major role in transforming Shoriful Islam into a genuine fast bowler during his Under-19 days.
Zaki’s passing comes at a difficult time for Dhaka Capitals, who have already been under scrutiny due to internal match-fixing and spot-fixing investigations.