DHAKA: Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal has provided crucial financial assistance to the family of the late Grandmaster Ziaur Rahman, offering a cheque of Tk five lakh to support them during their current financial struggles. The handover took place at the indoor facilities of the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tamim was moved to help the family after learning about their hardships through various media reports. Ziaur Rahman’s wife, Tasmin Sultana Labanya, along with their son Tahsin Tajwar Zia, who is also a FIDE Master, received the donation from the cricketing icon. Labanya expressed her gratitude and shared that Tamim encouraged her to maintain contact for any future assistance. Tamim also advised Tahsin to focus on both his studies and sports, emphasizing the importance of collective support to overcome their challenges.
Furthermore, Labanya mentioned that the CEO of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Nizam Uddin Chowdhury, has shown in
terest in sponsoring Tahsin for his next tournament. She was advised to submit an application to the BCB president to initiate the sponsorship process.
Tahsin shared his excitement about meeting Tamim, describing it as a significant moment in his life. He appreciated the life advice and encouragement from the renowned cricketer, particularly the motivation to continue pursuing chess. Tahsin recently returned from participating in the Chess Olympiad and multiple invitational tournaments in Hungary.
Grandmaster Ziaur Rahman tragically passed away on July 5 this year after suffering a cardiac arrest during the 48th National Chess Championship 2024 at the Bangladesh Chess Federation hall. He was promptly taken to Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute, where he was pronounced dead by the attending doctors.