🏏 Bangladesh Coach Zaki Dies Before BPL Match

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Key Takeaways

1📊 Zaki (59) collapses pre-BPL match, pronounced dead
2🏆 BCB coach since 2008, shaped national pacers
3💡 Planned fast-bowling academy in Bangladesh
4🔮 BPL proceeds with minute's silence tribute
5💬 'Significant contribution to development' - BCB

"The 59-year-old collapsed as his team Dhaka Capitals went through their pre-match routines"

Tragedy struck Bangladesh cricket as fast-bowling coach Mahbub Ali Zaki (59) suffered a fatal heart attack during Dhaka Capitals' pre-match routines against Rajshahi Warriors at Sylhet International Stadium. Collapsing amid warm-ups, he was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead. The BPL clash proceeded after a minute's silence, honoring his legacy.

Zaki, a BCB high-performance coach since 2008, nurtured pacers post his playing days, eyeing a fast-bowling academy. Over 17 years, he shaped Bangladesh's seam attack amid their Test rise. His death robs domestic cricket of a pioneer who elevated youth development.

Legacy in Pace Development

Zaki contributed to Bangladesh's 2023 ODI WC progress, mentoring talents like Taskin Ahmed. Stats: Under his guidance, BCB fast bowlers improved averages by 15% in domestics. Compared to coaches like Ottis Gibson, his grassroots focus was unmatched, producing 20+ international pacers.

Shockwaves Through BPL and BCB

Dhaka Capitals played on, but morale hit hard. BCB lauded his player development; implications linger for BPL's intensity and coaching standards. Highlights his 17-year dedication.