In a rare show of solidarity, 14 former cricket captains from five countries, including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and Australian great Greg Chappell, have appealed to the Pakistan government regarding the treatment of former Prime Minister and 1992 World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan. The letter, as per a copy obtained by The Times of India, expresses grave concern over Khan’s incarceration and declining health.

Imran Khan has been in jail for over 800 days, with reports indicating that his health is worsening. Court-appointed lawyers have recently highlighted that Khan has lost nearly 85 percent of vision in his right eye after authorities allegedly ignored his complaints for three months.

The appeal, signed by Gavaskar, Kapil, Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and ex-India coach John Wright, states:

"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 letter reminds the Pakistan government of Khan’s cricketing legacy, including his leadership in securing Pakistan’s historic 1992 World Cup victory, lauded globally for skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. The former captains emphasised that regardless of political affiliations, Khan’s contributions as both a sportsman and a national leader warrant humane treatment.

Highlighting the urgent need for medical attention, the captains urged:

  • Immediate, adequate, and ongoing medical care from qualified specialists of Khan’s choosing.
  • Humane and dignified detention conditions in line with international standards, including regular visits from close family members.
  • Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delays or hindrance.

The letter underscores that the appeal is made “in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings.” It stresses that cricket has historically served as a bridge between nations and calls on authorities to uphold the principles of decency and justice for a figure who has inspired generations on and off the field.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Khan’s party, last week condemned the treatment and highlighted the severe deterioration of his eyesight, echoing the concerns raised by the international cricketing fraternity. (With inputs from Agencies)