Fourteen former international players have signed a Cricket captains appeal for Imran Khan, urging the Pakistan government to ensure improved prison treatment and medical care for the former prime minister.
The petition, drafted by former Australian captain Greg Chappell, was delivered to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It carries the signatures of prominent cricket figures, including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark and Kim Hughes.
England’s Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley and David Gower also signed the letter. Clive Lloyd of the West Indies and John Wright of New Zealand added their support.
In the letter, the former captains expressed concern about reports of Imran Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly the loss of vision in one eye. They also raised questions about his detention conditions at Rawalpindi’s Adiala prison, where he has remained since August 2023.
They urged authorities to provide immediate and ongoing medical care from qualified specialists of his choosing. In addition, they called for humane detention conditions and regular family visits in line with international standards.
The signatories stressed that cricket represents values such as fair play and respect. They argued that those principles should guide how authorities treat a former national leader and global sporting figure.
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Sunil Gavaskar described the situation as deeply troubling. He noted his long-standing friendship with Imran Khan and expressed concern about his reported treatment.
Imran’s supporters have cited significant vision loss in his right eye. They have also raised concerns about limited family access and medical oversight.
His sons have previously described harsh prison conditions. They alleged issues with sanitation, electricity supply, and restricted access to reading materials.
Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have remained in custody following multiple corruption convictions. He currently faces a lengthy prison sentence following recent court rulings.
The appeal does not directly address legal matters. Instead, it focuses on medical care, detention standards and access to due process.
