Fourteen former international cricket captains have issued a joint appeal to Pakistan’s Prime Minister, calling for former Pakistan captain and ex-prime minister Imran Khan to be treated with “dignity and basic human consideration” amid growing concerns over his health in prison.
The open letter, reportedly drafted by former Australia captain Greg Chappell, has been signed by several of the game’s most respected figures, including Ian Chappell, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Clive Lloyd, Allan Border, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Steve Waugh, John Wright, Kim Hughes and Belinda Clark. Many of the signatories either played against Imran or shared the field with him during his celebrated career.
The appeal follows reports that Imran, who has been incarcerated for more than two years, is suffering from a serious eye complaint that his family claims has left him nearly blind in one eye. Allegations of inadequate medical care and restrictions on family visits have intensified scrutiny of his treatment in custody.
In their letter, the former captains highlighted Imran’s towering contribution to cricket, particularly his leadership in guiding Pakistan to the 1992 Cricket World Cup title. They described him as one of the finest all-rounders and captains in the sport’s history, admired for his skill, resilience and sportsmanship.
The group urged the Pakistan government to provide “immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention” from specialists of his choosing, ensure humane conditions of detention in line with international standards, and allow regular family visits and fair access to legal processes.
While the Pakistan government has denied allegations of mistreatment, international human rights organisations have also expressed concern over the conditions of his imprisonment. The captains stressed that their appeal was rooted in respect, sportsmanship and common humanity, regardless of political differences.