24-year-old Aleem Khan dies during PCB league match, sparking safety concerns

A wave of mourning is echoing in the Pakistan cricket world, as 24-year-old fast bowler Aleem Khan died of a heart attack during a PCB Challenge League match in Bannu on May 5, 2025. The youngster suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while bowling and had to seek immediate medical attention, but by then the player had died. He was taken to a nearby hospital, but could not survive. The incident took place during a tournament organised to showcase budding players.

Aleem was a resident of Bannu and was constantly making progress in domestic cricket. He was slowly making a mark for his speed and ability. Although he had not yet made it to the top-level domestic circuit, he had shown his talent in the regional league. According to a report, Aleem had recently picked up seven wickets in T20 matches and also scored some much-needed runs in the lower order, which shows his dual role as a bowling-all-rounder.

The PCB Challenger League is an initiative to bring lower-level talent to higher competitions. The team is now facing scrutiny over the health safety measures of the players. Umpire  Inamullah Khan, who was present in the match, recalled the horrific scene that Aleem fainted while bowling. They immediately called for medical help and took him to the hospital, but he could not survive.

PCB's Director of Domestic Cricket Abdullah Khurram Niazi also expressed deep sadness at the irreparable loss it has suffered for Pakistan cricket. Aleem's demise has also sparked a buzz about medical preparations for domestic tournaments, especially at remote venues. Aleem's death underscores the physical demands on athletes and the urgent need for better health monitoring systems.