Along with twelve other former captains, Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev have voiced their “deep concern” for the jailed cricketer-turned-politician. Imran Khan’s declining health, calling on the Pakistani government to give him respectable living conditions and sufficient medical care in accordance with international norms.
Imran, the captain of the 1992 World Cup, reportedly lost almost 85% of his vision in his right eye as a result of medical mistreatment when he was being held at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.
Up to 14 previous captains contacted the Pakistani government a letter titled “Appeal by former International Cricket Captains” requesting that Khan be treated fairly.
“We, the undersigned former captains of our national cricket teams, write with deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan, the distinguished former Captain of Pakistan and a legendary figure in world cricket. Recent reports concerning his health – particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody – and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern. As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan’s stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon,” the letter said, according to PTI.
Michael Brearley, Allan Border, Michael Atherton, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and John Wright have also signed the letter.
Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, was found guilty of corruption in 2023 and given a 14-year prison sentence.
The group of former captains requested in the letter that the 73-year-old Khan receive appropriate medical care, open legal proceedings, and dignified treatment.
“We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives: Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues. Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, Including regular visits by close family members. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance. Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn-and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.”
Authorities were urged to respect “decency and justice” in the letter.
“This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings.”
The letter emphasized Khan’s political and cricketing accomplishments.
“Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders. Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolizing his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike. Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country.”
