In a worrying development for Bangladesh, head coach Sarwar Imran suffered a minor stroke in Colombo just days before his team’s opening match in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. The incident has raised concerns among fans and cricketing circles, but the management assures that the veteran coach is now stable and recovering under medical supervision.
According to statements by team manager SM Golam Faiyaz, Imran had been feeling dizzy for a couple and on September 29, when taken to the hospital in Colombo, an MRI scan and further medical evaluations confirmed the occurrence of a minor brain stroke. He remained under observation overnight and was discharged on September 30, returning to the team hotel to continue recovery.
Though eager to resume full duties immediately, the coaching staff and team management have urged him to rest, prioritizing his health over training obligations. The manager commented, “We asked Sir to rest today. He is hopeful of going to the ground with us tomorrow.” As of now, he remains under close medical supervision at the hotel.
At 66 years old, Sarwar Imran is a respected figure in Bangladesh cricket, with decades of experience in both men’s and women’s formats. Earlier in 2025, he assumed the role of women’s head coach, succeeding Hashan Tillakaratne. Under his guidance, Bangladesh secured qualification for the Women’s World Cup, their second appearance after debuting in 2022.
His long history includes coaching roles in domestic cricket and with national men’s sides. Notably, he was instrumental when Bangladesh played their first-ever Test match in 2000. Despite this health setback, Bangladesh’s preparation for the tournament remains intact. The rest of the coaching staff, including batting and bowling coaches, support the team in Sri Lanka and India.
Bangladesh’s campaign is set to begin against Pakistan Women on October 2 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, as part of the Women’s World Cup 2025 schedule.
The priority now lies in monitoring Imran’s recovery while the Bangladesh women’s team focuses on their performance on the field. The experienced coach hopes to rejoin active duties soon, lending his tactical acumen and leadership to the Tigresses’ World Cup aspirations.
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