Several former cricket captains from around the world have voiced support for Pakistan’s former Prime Minister and 1992 World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan, expressing concern over his reported health condition in prison. The 73-year-old leader is currently incarcerated, and international cricket figures have appealed to the Pakistani government and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over his welfare.
Appeal calls for medical care and legal transparency
A joint letter signed by 14 former international captains urges authorities to ensure proper medical treatment for Imran Khan, humane prison conditions, and transparency in the legal proceedings against him. Among the signatories are Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Greg Chappell, Allan Border, Clive Lloyd and Steve Waugh, along with other prominent former leaders of the game.
Notably, no former Pakistani captain has signed the appeal so far. However, last week, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shahid Afridi publicly called for adequate medical care for Imran through social media posts.
Concerns over health deterioration
Reports claim that Imran Khan has lost 85 percent of his vision in his right eye. His family and supporters allege that they are not even being allowed to visit him in prison. His son, Sulaiman Khan, said last year that he had been kept in a very small cell, which is called a 'death cell'.
Sentenced in corruption cases
After being ousted from power in 2022, Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been in prison since August 2023. He is currently serving a 31-year sentence in multiple corruption cases.
What the appeal states
In the letter, the former captains wrote that Imran Khan is not only a world-class all-rounder and captain, but he also brought Pakistan's historic victory in the 1992 World Cup. Despite political differences, his dignity as a former Prime Minister and international sports personality should be preserved.
Three key demands to the Pakistani government
1) Immediate and regular medical treatment through specialist doctors of choice.
2) Humane imprisonment conditions, maintaining international standards and regular meetings with family.
3) Guarantee of transparent and impartial legal process.
The letter concludes by saying that just as cricket builds relationships across national boundaries, respect remains intact even after competition ends. Recalling this sporting spirit, an appeal has been made for humanity and justice.
