Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan’s health has been deteriorating in Pakistan’s Adiala Jail. He is said to have lost partial vision. It’s been almost two years since authorities imprisoned the World Cup-winning captain in August 2023. He is serving a 14-year sentence for corruption.Â
Imran’s sons are seeking permission from the authorities to visit their father, as per a Reuters report. “It’s hard not to feel low at times because we’ve been away from him so long,” Kasim said.Â
The authorities have claimed that the medical procedures are underway. But Imran’s party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has contradicted the claims.Â
14 international captains come out in support of Imran Khan
Twelve international captains including the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev have appealed the Government of Pakistan Government for a better treatment of Imran Khan. Apart from Gavaskar, Kapil, the other signatories are Greg Chappell, Michael Atherton (OBE), Allan Border (AO, Australian of the Year 1989), Michael Brearley (OBE), Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark (AO), David Gower (OBE), Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain (OBE), Sir Clive Lloyd (CBE), Steve Waugh (AO, Australian of the Year 2004) and John Wright (MBE).
“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,” the statement read.
“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,” they wrote.Â
The captains have further pointed out the ex-Pakistan skipper’s contributions to the sport. “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.”
They further said, “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.”
They further stated that authorities should uphold the principles of decency. “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.”
