Some of the finest former international cricket captains have come together to make a joint appeal, urging the Pakistani government to provide humane treatment to former cricketer and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has reportedly lost 85% of vision in one eye due to inadequate medical care while in detention.
According to Khan’s family, the 1992 World Cup-winning captain has endured substandard prison conditions and prolonged solitary confinement over the past two and a half years, while authorities have failed to ensure timely medical attention.
The statement, released on February 17, said the former captains were alarmed by reports of a sharp deterioration in Khan’s vision and by the conditions of his detention. The signatories include Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Sunil Gavaskar, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Kapil Dev, Stephen Waugh, and John Wright.
“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,” the statement read.
The former players cited Khan’s lasting impact on the sport, recalling his leadership in guiding Pakistan to its historic 1992 Cricket World Cup triumph. They praised his resilience, sportsmanship, and charisma, noting that his achievements inspired generations of players and fans worldwide.
“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising 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,” the statement added.
The appeal also referenced Khan’s tenure as Pakistan’s democratically elected Prime Minister, emphasizing that, irrespective of political differences, he is entitled to humane treatment.
“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 statement said.
The former captains urged the Pakistani authorities to provide:
- Immediate, adequate, and ongoing medical care from qualified specialists of Khan’s choosing to address his reported health issues.
- Humane and dignified conditions of detention, including regular visits from close family members.
- Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or obstruction.
“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,” the statement continued. “We call on authorities to honor 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.
Asim Tanveer is a seasoned journalist working for TV and electronic and print media outlets. He has been working for some of the world’s leading news organizations including Associated Press (AP), Reuters, BBC, CNN, CNBC, Star TV, Voice of America and The New York Times for more than 30 years. He has won several awards for his live coverage of events that include a Reuters News Agency World Award and the Pride of Performance award in 1997.
Well done sir