It is with profound sadness that we join the hockey world in mourning the passing of Olympic Gold medalist and hockey legend, Imran Sherwani. Imran passed away peacefully on Friday, 28th November, aged 63, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Imran was not just a player; he was an icon of British sport. For many, he will forever be synonymous with the golden haze of the 1988 Seoul Olympics when he was the face of Grays’ “Karachi is still King” campaign. It was there, on the grandest stage, that he etched his name into history. Wielding his trusty Karachi King, Imran scored two decisive goals in the final against West Germany to secure Great Britain’s historic 3-1 victory. His second goal and GB’s third remains one of the most enduring images of the Games, prompting the immortal line from commentator Barry Davies: "Where were the Germans? But frankly, who cares!"
That moment inspired a generation of players to pick up a stick, but Imran’s legacy extends far beyond a single match. A skilful left-winger with an eye for goal, he earned 49 caps for England and 45 for Great Britain, also claiming silver medals at the 1986 World Cup and 1987 European Championship.
Off the pitch, Imran was a humble gentleman and a devoted family man. In recent years, his openness about his diagnosis with young-onset Alzheimer’s helped raise vital awareness and funds for research, showing the same tenacity he once displayed on the pitch.
At Grays, we were incredibly proud to call him an ambassador. His connection to the brand was celebrated recently with the re-release of the 'Karachi King' - a modern composite tribute to the wooden stick he used to conquer the world in 1988; in support of Alzheimers Research UK.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Imran’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Richard Gray, Grays CEO - Commercial, paid tribute to Imran:
“Imran was a true legend of Great Britain Hockey and of course for Grays too. We enjoyed a long and successful partnership and everyone at Grays was so proud to be associated with him - throughout his stellar career. More recently, I was particularly privileged to be able to spend time with him and Steve Batchelor, shortly after his diagnosis to chat about the old days and to arrange the special 1988 stick which we created for him. Our thoughts are with Louise, Zak, Aaron and Josh at this very sad time.”
