A significant chorus of former international cricket captains, numbering fourteen in total, has formally appealed to the Pakistani government, calling for Imran Khan to receive adequate medical care and improved treatment. This united plea comes amid growing disquiet surrounding the health of the former Pakistan Prime Minister and cricketing legend, who has reportedly been held in solitary confinement for an extended period.
The captains’ one-page request to the Pakistani authorities urges swift action regarding Imran Khan’s well-being. Their appeal follows reports indicating a severe decline in his vision, specifically a significant loss of sight in his right eye, while in custody.
The distinguished list of signatories includes a veritable who’s who of cricketing royalty from across the globe. From India, former captains Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev have lent their names to the appeal. Australia is represented by Greg Chappell, Allan Border (AO, Australian of the Year 1989), and Steve Waugh (AO, Australian of the Year 2004). England’s contingent features Michael Atherton (OBE), Michael Brearley (OBE), David Gower (OBE), and Nasser Hussain (OBE). Also supporting the appeal are Sir Clive Lloyd (CBE) from the West Indies, Kim Hughes from Australia, Belinda Clark (AO) from Australia, and John Wright (MBE) from New Zealand.
The joint statement outlines specific demands, respectfully urging 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.
The former captains expressed their profound concern, stating, “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.”
They further articulated their belief that a figure of Imran Khan’s stature warrants respectful treatment, adding, “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 statement underscored Imran Khan’s indelible contributions to the sport of cricket, most notably his leadership of Pakistan to their historic 1992 ODI World Cup triumph.
“Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired,” the appeal reads. “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.”
The signatories reminisced about their personal experiences with Khan, noting, “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 his sporting achievements, the statement acknowledged his significant role in national leadership: “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.”
The former captains implored the Pakistan Government to uphold fundamental principles of decency and justice. They highlighted the unifying power of cricket, stating, “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.”
Their appeal concluded with a powerful call to action: “We call on authorities to honour it now by upholding the principles of decency and justice. This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings.”
Prior to this broad appeal, prominent Pakistani cricketers had already voiced their deep concerns. The legendary pace duo of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis were among the first to express their dismay. Wasim Akram, who has often cited Imran Khan as the most significant influence on his career, shared on X (formerly Twitter), “It is heartbreaking to hear our skipper Imran Khan going through health issues. I sincerely hope the authorities take this seriously and ensure he receives the best possible medical care. Wishing him strength, a speedy recovery, and a full return to good health.”
Waqar Younis echoed these sentiments, posting, “Putting politics aside, our national hero who gave us our greatest glory on the sporting field, a cancer hospital [which] helped so many, including my own mother, is suffering a health emergency and requires urgent treatment. I humbly request the related authorities he gets the appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Get well soon skipper.”
Other notable former Pakistani cricketers who have raised concerns about Imran Khan’s deteriorating health and treatment include Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi, Ramiz Raja, and Mohammad Hafeez, further amplifying the calls for urgent medical attention and humane treatment.
