14 former international captains have penned a joint letter to the Pakistan government seeking better care and treatment for the country’s former World Cup winning captain Imran Khan, who is currently in jail. The former Pakistan PM has been languishing behind bars since May 2023 after multiple cases were lodged against him by the current regime led by Shehbaz Sharif. The 14 former international captains, including Sunil Gavaskar, Greg Chappel, Kapil Dev among others, have urged the Pakistan government to provide better treatment in terms of physical, mental, environmentally and socially t imran.
Imran Khan gets support of 14 former captains
“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.
Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired. 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
We respectfully urge 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.
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.
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,” the letter read.
The 14 undersigned former international captains include: Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley, David Gower, Clive Lloyd & John Wright
