Bangladesh Coach Sarwar Imran Returns to Duties Days After Minor Stroke

Bangladesh Women’s head coach Sarwar Imran has made a remarkable return to duty just days after suffering a minor stroke, attending his team’s opening match of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup against Pakistan in Colombo on Thursday.

The 66-year-old coach suffered the stroke on Monday and was discharged from hospital the following day. Despite the health scare, Imran was back at training on Wednesday and remained present throughout Bangladesh’s commanding seven-wicket win over Pakistan.

Although he mostly stayed inside the dressing room rather than taking his usual place in the dugout, his presence was a significant morale boost for the team.

Team manager SM Golam Faiyaz confirmed Imran’s swift return was driven by his commitment to the players.
“He didn’t want the players to be discouraged,” Faiyaz told ESPNcricinfo. “The doctor has said to keep an eye on him, and we are doing all that. But he’s feeling better.”

Following their victory in Colombo — the southernmost venue of this World Cup — Bangladesh are scheduled to travel to Guwahati, the northernmost host city, on a charter flight Friday morning. Imran is expected to travel with the team and continue his coaching duties.

Bangladesh’s next match is against England on Tuesday.

Imran, a highly respected figure in Bangladesh cricket, has been instrumental in the development of the women's team and his swift return is being seen as a testament to his dedication, even in the face of personal health challenges.