For the first time since suffering a major heart attack, former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal made an emotional return to the cricket ground, visiting the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) on Saturday to witness the high-stakes Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Abahani Limited.
Tamim, who flew back to Dhaka from Singapore on Friday night after seeking a second opinion on his heart condition, arrived in Mirpur around noon during Abahani's innings. The 36-year-old was also spotted visiting the Mohammedan dressing room — the very team he was leading before his health scare.
The left-handed opener suffered a cardiac arrest on March 24 during a DPL game against Shinepukur Cricket Club at BKSP in Savar. Subsequent medical tests revealed a 100% blockage in one artery and a partial blockage in another, leading to an urgent stenting procedure.
After being discharged from Evercare Hospital in Dhaka on March 28, Tamim spent Eid with his family and later traveled to Singapore for a thorough medical evaluation.
In Tamim's absence, Towhid Hridoy has taken over the captaincy for Mohammedan in the ongoing tournament.
In Saturday’s match, Mohammedan posted a target of 265 runs, thanks to a brilliant 114 off 118 balls from opener Anisul Islam. In reply, Abahani reached 153 for 5 in 31 overs, with Najmul Hossain Shanto unbeaten on 61 at the crease.
