Sports legend Abdus Sadeque passes away

Veteran sports figure and one of Bangladesh’s most versatile athletes Abdus Sadeque has passed away on Saturday morning (June 20) while undergoing treatment at a hospital in the capital's Gulshan area. He was 78.

His death was confirmed by family sources and the Bangladesh Hockey Federation.

Sadeque left behind his wife, two sons, a daughter and a host of admirers across the country’s sporting fraternity.

A rare multi-sport talent, Sadeq earned distinction in cricket, football and hockey. He also represented Pakistan in hockey before the independence of Bangladesh. After 1971, he became the first captain of the Bangladesh national hockey team, marking a historic milestone in the country’s sporting history.

He was also closely associated with the early development of Abahani Limited, one of Bangladesh’s most iconic sports clubs. Sadeque served as the first football captain and first hockey captain of Abahani during its formative years in the 1970s, playing a key role in shaping the club’s sporting identity.

Following his playing career, he contributed significantly as a coach and sports organiser, remaining actively involved in the development of national sports.

In recognition of his lifelong contribution to Bangladeshi sports, Sadeque was awarded the National Sports Award in 1996. Widely respected for his leadership, discipline and sporting spirit, he was regarded as a guiding figure in the country’s sports community.

His first funeral prayer will be held after Asr prayers at Baitus Sobhan Jame Mosque in Block I, Bashundhara Residential Area. A second namaz-e-janaza is scheduled for Sunday at 10:30am at Banani Old DOHS ground.