Former cricket captains urge Pakistan to ensure medical care for Imran Khan

KARACHI, Pakistan (MNTV) — Fourteen former international cricket captains have appealed to the Pakistani government to ensure proper medical care and humane treatment for former prime minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan, according to media reports.

The petition, initiated by former Australia captain Greg Chappell, was formally addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In the letter, the group expressed concern over Khan’s reported health condition during his incarceration.

Among the signatories were several prominent figures from the cricketing world, including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley, David Gower, Clive Lloyd and John Wright.

In their communication, the former captains voiced “profound concern” over reports regarding the health of Imran Khan, particularly claims of deteriorating eyesight and the conditions of his detention over the past two and a half years.

The group urged authorities to provide immediate and ongoing medical attention by qualified specialists and to ensure detention conditions consistent with international humanitarian standards. They also called for regular family access and fair, timely legal proceedings.

Khan, who led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup before entering politics, has been held at Adiala Prison following his conviction in largely concocted corruption-related cases. His supporters have raised concerns about his health, alleging significant vision loss and limited access to personal medical care and family visits.

In their letter, the former captains said the values of sportsmanship, fair play, dignity and respect should extend beyond the cricket field, particularly in the treatment of a former national leader and internationally recognized sporting figure.

They noted that cricket has historically served as a bridge between nations and argued that mutual respect among players has endured beyond on-field rivalries. Khan, they said, embodied those ideals during his playing career and should now be treated in accordance with the same principles.