The BFF officially confirmed Murray’s appointment in a press release on Monday, 9 November. The French coach will oversee the team’s training and preparations during Butler’s absence, with the players, including Rituporna Chakma, set to continue their work under his supervision.
The federation also expressed its concern over Butler’s physical condition and wished him a speedy and full recovery. In its statement, the BFF said it hoped the regular head coach would regain his health and rejoin the squad as soon as possible.
Murray’s appointment comes at a significant point in Bangladesh’s international calendar. The women’s team are scheduled to face Singapore in two matches on 1 and 5 December. Murray will lead the side in both fixtures, making the upcoming series his first major responsibility since taking over on an interim basis.
With limited time available, his immediate task will be to maintain the team’s training schedule, assess the players’ readiness and ensure that preparations remain on track. A temporary change in leadership can present challenges, particularly when a team is preparing for international fixtures. Maintaining tactical consistency, communication and confidence within the squad will therefore be important.
The two encounters against Singapore will offer Bangladesh an opportunity to test its strength against international opposition. They will also provide valuable match experience and allow the coaching staff to assess the squad’s organisation, coordination and ability to implement tactical plans under competitive conditions.
Bangladesh women’s football has made significant strides in recent years, attracting growing public interest through its performances on the regional stage. Sustaining that progress requires consistent preparation, regular international exposure and continuity in coaching. The December fixtures will be another opportunity for the players to demonstrate their development.
For Murray, the one-month assignment will require him to adapt quickly to the squad and make effective use of the preparation period. Working with an established group of players, he will need to maintain the team’s rhythm while preparing them for two demanding encounters.
The BFF’s decision is a temporary arrangement rather than a permanent change in the coaching structure. Butler remains the team’s regular head coach, and the federation has expressed its hope that he will return once fully recovered.
Attention will now turn to Murray’s work with the squad and Bangladesh’s performances against Singapore. The results, along with the team’s overall display, will be closely watched as the women’s side prepares for its December international commitments.
