Tragic Loss for Dhaka Capitals as Coach Mahbub Ali Zaki Passes Away
Heartbreaking Incident Before BPL 2025 Opener
The Dhaka Capitals experienced a profound shock as their coach, Mahbub Ali Zaki, tragically passed away shortly after collapsing just minutes before their inaugural match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025 against the Rajshahi Warriors at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on December 12.
Despite the emotional turmoil, the Dhaka Capitals secured a five-wicket victory over the Rajshahi Warriors, successfully chasing a target of 133 runs with seven balls remaining. Abdullah Al Mamun was instrumental in this win, scoring 45 runs off 39 balls, while Sabbir Rahman contributed a brisk 21 runs off just 10 balls, leading the team to victory in 18.5 overs.
Emotional Victory Amidst Grief
While the Dhaka Capitals celebrated their first win of the BPL 2025 season, the joy was overshadowed by the loss of their assistant coach, Mahbub Ali Zaki, who was 59 years old. Reports indicate that Zaki collapsed during the team's warm-up just before the match against Rajshahi Warriors.
Immediate medical assistance was provided, including CPR from team staff, before he was rushed to Al Haramain Hospital in Sylhet. Unfortunately, doctors declared him dead upon arrival, leaving the team and management in shock. Players from various BPL teams, including Sylhet Titans, Noakhali Express, and Chattogram Royals, also rushed to the hospital to pay their respects.
Tributes Pour In for Mahbub Ali Zaki
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed the news of Mahbub Ali Zaki's passing and honored his significant contributions to the development of fast bowling in Bangladesh cricket. In a statement on social media, the BCB expressed, "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 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."
A Moment of Silence for a Beloved Coach
In memory of Mahbub Ali Zaki, players, officials, and the entire cricket community observed a minute of silence to honor his legacy and contributions to the sport. Both the Dhaka Capitals and Rajshahi Warriors participated in this tribute during the mid-innings break, reflecting on the impact Zaki had on the game.
Although the match proceeded as planned, the atmosphere was somber as both teams took a moment to pay their respects to the late coach.
Legacy of Mahbub Ali Zaki
Mahbub Ali Zaki was instrumental in fostering fast bowling talent within Bangladesh cricket. Before transitioning to coaching, he played as a fast bowler for Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and led clubs like Abahani and Dhanmondi in the Dhaka Division Premier League.
After retiring, Zaki took on coaching roles, becoming a High Performance coach for the Bangladesh Cricket Board in 2008. He played a vital role in developing fast bowlers at both junior and senior levels.
Zaki's influence extended to notable players like Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed, whom he mentored, particularly during challenging times. He was also the specialist fast bowling coach for the Bangladesh U19 team that won the U19 World Cup in 2020, marking a significant achievement in his coaching career.