Fourteen former international cricket captains from different countries have voiced concern over the reported treatment of former Pakistan all-rounder Imran Khan in prison, Australian news outlet ‘The Age’ reported on Tuesday.
The former cricketers who signed the letter include Greg Chappell, Belinda Clark, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Ian Chappell, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and John Wright.
According to the report, the cricketers signed a petition in the form of a letter addressed to the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In the letter, they urged the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Khan’s legal rights are upheld and that he receives appropriate medical care and humane treatment in detention.
What the Captains’ Petition Demands for Imran Khan?
The petition seen by Sports Manch highlights Imran’s cricketing achievements, noting that he inspired generations across borders through his leadership.
“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,” the letter stated.
“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,” it added.
The former cricketers also recalled their playing days, reflecting on the experience of playing alongside one of the game’s finest.
“Many of us either played against him, stood alongside him on the field, or grew up admiring his exceptional all-round talent, magnetic personality, and fierce competitive drive. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders and captains the game has ever produced, earning admiration from teammates, opponents, supporters, and officials alike.”
In addition to cricket, the letter acknowledged his political career.
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“Beyond his achievements in cricket, Imran Khan went on to serve as Prime Minister of Pakistan, guiding the nation through a demanding period in its history. Irrespective of political views, he carries the distinction of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country.”
The letter also mentioned recent reports concerning his health, particularly claims of significant deterioration in his eyesight while in custody.
“Recent reports about his health — especially the troubling decline in his eyesight while in custody and the circumstances of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years — have deeply worried us.”
“As fellow cricketers who uphold the principles of fairness, integrity, and respect that extend beyond the boundary line, we believe that someone of Imran Khan’s stature should be afforded the dignity and basic human consideration due to a former national leader and an international sporting legend.”
The cricketers called on the Pakistani authorities to ensure that Khan receives immediate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing, humane and dignified conditions of detention, including regular family visits, and fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay.
“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 concluded.
Imran Khan’s Jail and Ouster Background
Earlier, reports claimed that Imran Khan had lost 85 per cent of vision in his right eye, prompting concerns over his health and prison conditions.
Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been behind bars since August 2023. He served as Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2018 to 2022, until a No-confidence motion tabled by the opposition led to his removal.
He is currently facing numerous corruption charges and is serving a 31-year sentence following the latest verdict delivered in December 2025.