Mahbub Ali Zaki dies during BPL match prep [Source: @CricketT20IPL/X]
In the latest developments, Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki collapsed on the ground while the Capitals were preparing for their upcoming clash against Rajshahi Royals at Sylhet. Soon after the collapse, Zaki was given CPR by the physiotherapists present on the ground before being taken to the hospital via an ambulance.
However, he didn't survive after the collapse as Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief physician Debashish Chowdhury confirmed the death to Daily Sun.
“Mahbub Ali Zaki has passed away. I am unable to say anything more at this moment,” Chowdhury said as quoted by Daily Sun.
As Zaki collapsed during preparations on the ground, the exact reason for his sudden fall was not clearly disclosed by officials or the health workers present. A cardiac arrest or heart attack is suspected. It is also important to note that earlier Zaki didn't complain about any prior health issues.
Mahbub Ali Zaki and his career as a coach
Known for his expertise in bowling mechanics and rehabilitation, Mahbub Ali Zaki has played a crucial role in shaping Bangladesh’s pace bowling talent
He has held several key positions, including National Specialist Bowling Coach at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), often working at the National Cricket Academy in Mirpur, and as the bowling coach for the Bangladesh Under-19 team that won the 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup.
In the BPL, he served as assistant coach for Chittagong Vikings in 2017 under Nurul Abedin and joined Dhaka Capitals in 2025. Zaki also contributes to the Bowling Action Review Committee, helping identify and correct suspect bowling actions in domestic cricket.
Among his most noticeable achievements, Zaki is credited with mentoring and rehabilitating Taskin Ahmed, remodelling his bowling action after it was deemed illegal by the ICC, and serving as a personal mentor since Taskin’s Under-15 days.
He also developed Shoriful Islam from a medium-pacer into a genuine fast bowler during his time with the Under-19 program.
Amid the ongoing challenges for Dhaka Capitals in the BPL since last season, with their name being flagged in internal match-fixing and spot-fixing investigations, this incident further adds to the franchise’s troubles. Alongside the corruption reports, this also undermines their credibility in staff management as an inspection is expected on the matter.

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