Captains come out in support of Imran Khan

Twelve international captains, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have made a fervent appeal to the Government of Pakistan Government for a better treatment of Imran Khan, physically, mentally, environmentally and even socially.

The joint statement, released to select media outlets including Cricbuzz, makes a formal representation for the wellbeing of the former World Cup-winning captain, who has been confined to prison with no information available about his health or safety. Among the 12 signatories is also Greg Chappell, the former Australia captain and ex-India head coach.

In their one-page request, they have said, "We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives:

Apart from Gavaskar, Kapil and Chappell, the other signatories are 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, expressing deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan.

They have pointed out how Imran is universally admired for his inspirational leadership and contribution to cricket. "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."

The former captains have concluded the appeal stating the Pakistan authorities have to uphold the principles of decency and justice. "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."

There have been widespread reports of deteriorating health of Imran Khan, who is said to have lost partial vision. Incarcerated since 2023 under reportedly poor conditions, he has allegedly not been allowed to meet family members by the Government of Pakistan and the all-powerful military.

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