Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Zaki passes away

Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki passed away on Saturday after suddenly collapsing at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium during his team's pre-match practice session before the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He was 59.

The incident occurred shortly after Dhaka Capitals' season-opening match against the Rajshahi Warriors, as Zaki was overseeing the team's warm-up session.

He collapsed unexpectedly on the field, prompting immediate action from team staff and medical personnel, who administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before rushing him to a nearby hospital by ambulance.

Zaki was pronounced dead while being transported, confirmed Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief Physician Debashish Chowdhury.

"Mahbub Ali Zaki is no more. I am unable to say anything more at this moment," Chowdhury told reporters.

A former fast bowler, Zaki represented Cumilla District with distinction in the National Cricket Championship. He also played in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, representing leading clubs such as Abahani and Dhanmondi.

Following his playing career, Zaki devoted himself to coaching and player development. He joined the BCB in 2008 as a High Performance Coach and played 

a significant role in the development of pace bowling in Bangladesh through his work with emerging cricketers.

The BCB extends its heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends and the cricketing community during this difficult time and prays for the eternal peace of the departed soul.