Great Britain and England hockey legend Imran Sherwani has died, the family have announced today.
He was famous for scoring two goals in the final as Great Britain’s men’s hockey team won gold at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul.
His second goal and Britain’s third in the 3-1 win over West Germany led to the iconic “Where were the Germans?” line from BBC commentator Barry Davies.
** Imran Sherwani. Picture: Alex Wallace – Alzheimer’s Research UK
That gold medal followed silver medals at the 1986 World Cup and the 1987 European Cup; in total, he won 49 England caps and represented Great Britain 45 times.
EuroHockey President Marcos Hofmann paid tribute to Imran, saying: “My generation grew up with great players from GB and England like Imran.
“He was one of the very best and his performance at the final of Seoul 88 will go down in history as one of those iconic moments which transcends our sport’s barriers and is part of the wider Olympic folklore.
“On behalf of EuroHockey, we are saddened to hear of Imran’s death and pass our condolences on to his family.”
The father-of-three was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s in December 2019, aged 57. He announced his Alzheimer’s diagnosis publicly in 2021, ahead of a team running the London Marathon for Alzheimer’s Research UK in his honour.
The team, which was led by his former team-mate and fellow gold medallist Steve Batchelor and included Imran’s sons Zac and Aaron, raised over £45,000.
In 2022, England Hockey hosted ‘Orange for Imran’ during that season’s London Pro League to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s Research UK and the men’s team had the logo on the front of their shirt.
Imran’s family have continued to raise awareness of young onset dementia to help other families.
In a statement, the Sherwani family said: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Imran Sherwani, beloved husband, dad, grandad, brother and son.
“Whilst many knew him for his sporting achievements, to us he was a devoted family man whose warmth, humour, and kindness touched everyone who knew him. Imran will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will remain with us always.
“We kindly ask for privacy as we grieve together and remember the remarkable man he was.”
His great friend and international team mate Norman Hughes added: “Imran was just a fabulous guy on and off the pitch.
“He made his England debut against Scotland in Cardiff in July 1983. He scored eigh goals in his first eight internationals which is a truly remarkable feat.
“Of course, he is remembered most of all for his demolition of the Germans in the Seoul Olympic gold medal game.
“But those who knew Imi will remember a guy who showed respect, loyalty and always covered your back. He overcame a serious knee injury otherwise he would for sure been in LA84 also.
“You could not ask for a better teammate or person. I must add that supporting Imi throughout his career has been his rock Louise. Lucky man, she has given him the space to shine and achieve his dreams.”
England Hockey CEO Rich Beer added: “Imran Sherwani will forever be remembered as one of the true icons of England and Great Britain Hockey. His talent, leadership and humility inspired generations of players and fans alike.
“Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Imran was a remarkable person whose kindness and passion enriched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“On behalf of England and Great Britain Hockey, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates. His legacy will continue to shape our sport for years to come.”
