Fourteen former international cricket captains from five Test-playing nations have urged the Pakistan government to ensure improved prison conditions for former prime minister and ex-cricket captain Imran Khan, citing concerns about his health and treatment in custody.
The appeal was drafted by former Australian captain Greg Chappell and delivered to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday. It carries the signatures of prominent former captains including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley, David Gower, Clive Lloyd and John Wright.
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In their letter, the former players expressed concern over reports of Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly claims about a serious decline in his eyesight during his detention in Rawalpindi’s Adiala prison, where he has been held for more than two years following corruption convictions.
They called on the government to ensure that Khan receives immediate and ongoing medical care from qualified specialists of his choice, humane conditions of detention in line with international standards, regular family visits and fair, transparent access to legal proceedings.
Gavaskar described the situation as “terrible,” recalling his long-standing friendship with Khan. Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, have also raised concerns about his health and prison conditions, alleging restricted access to family, medical care and basic facilities.
Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been in custody since August 2023. Khan currently faces multiple convictions, with cumulative sentences totaling 31 years following a verdict issued in December.
