Dhaka Capitals Assistant Coach Dies Of Cardiac Arrest Ahead Of BPL Match Against Rajshahi Royals

Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki has died of cardiac arrest just before the Bangladesh Premier League game against Rajshahi Royals. Zaki collapsed on the ground at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, and he was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Dhaka Capitals Assistant Coach Passes Away Ahead Of BPL Game

The Bangladesh Cricket Board issued a statement condoling his death. "The Bangladesh Cricket Board deeply mourns the passing of Mahbub Ali Zaki (59), Specialist Pace Bowling Coach of the BCB Game Development Department and Assistant Coach of Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 2026.

"He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in Sylhet at around 1:00 PM (afternoon).

"Mahbub Ali Zaki’s dedication and invaluable contribution to the development of fast bowling and Bangladesh cricket will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude.

“The Bangladesh Cricket Board extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire cricketing fraternity at this time of immense loss.”

Mahbub Ali Zaki Was An Influential Figure In Bangladesh Cricket

Zaka was also part of Bangladesh's U-19 World Cup-winning contingent back in 2020. People present on the ground tried to revive him, and he was later taken to the Al Haramain Hospital. As per Cricbuzz, several players from other BPL sides went to the hospital as soon as the news spread.

Also Read: Ashes 2025: Boxing Day Test Fails To Impact WTC 2027, Here's How Updated Points Table Looks Like After England Defeat Australia By 4 Wickets

Jaki also helped Taskin Ahmed when he came under the spotlight for suspected action after 2016. A one minute of silence was observed before the Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Royals game in honour of Mahbub Ali Zaki.

Also Read: Ashes 2025: Amid Heavy Criticism, England Opener Ben Duckett Registers Massive Test Career Milestone