14 Former Cricket Captains Express Concern Over Imran Khan’s Health, Write to PM Shehbaz Sharif

New Delhi

Fourteen former captains of national cricket teams have written a letter to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing deep concern over the health and prison conditions of former Pakistan Prime Minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan.

The initiative was reportedly led by former Australian captain Greg Chappell. Among the signatories are cricket legends including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Belinda Clark, Ian Chappell, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and John Wright.

In the letter, the former captains described themselves as past leaders of national cricket teams who are deeply concerned about the treatment and prison conditions of Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and one of the great figures in world cricket.

They highlighted Khan’s immense contribution to the sport, particularly leading Pakistan to its historic victory in the Cricket World Cup 1992. The letter stated that the triumph was built on his skill, unwavering courage, and leadership, which inspired generations across borders.

Beyond cricket, the signatories acknowledged that Imran Khan also served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, having been democratically elected to the country’s highest office. The appeal emphasized that, irrespective of political views, he deserves dignity and humane treatment.

The letter expressed serious concern over reports about Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly alarming claims about the weakening of his eyesight during his detention. It also mentioned concerns regarding his prison conditions over the past two and a half years.

The former captains urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani government to ensure that Imran Khan receives immediate and appropriate medical care from specialists of his choice. They also requested that he be provided humane and dignified prison conditions in line with international standards, including regular family visits and the right to a fair and transparent legal process without unnecessary delay.

Concluding the emotional appeal, the signatories wrote that cricket has always served as a bridge between nations. While competition ends on the field, respect must endure. They stressed that their appeal was not an attempt to interfere in any legal proceedings, but rather a call grounded in sportsmanship and humanity.

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