Gavaskar, Kapil, Lloyd among 14 legendary captains appealing to Pakistan government for fair treatment of Imran Khan in jail

A group of former international cricket captains, including Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Sunil Gavaskar and Clive Lloyd, has issued a joint statement urging the Pakistan government to ensure former Pakistan Prime Minister and World Cup-winning skipper Imran Khan receives “immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention” and is treated “with dignity and basic human consideration” amid growing concern over his health in custody.

The statement, released on February 17, said the former captains were alarmed by reports of a sharp deterioration in Khan’s vision while incarcerated, and by the conditions of his detention over the past two and a half years. The signatories include Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Sunil Gavaskar, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Kapil Dev, Stephen Waugh and John Wright.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.”

Approved by:

Michael Atherton OBE

Allan Border AO, Australian of the Year 1989

Michael Brearley OBE

Greg Chappell AO MBE

Ian Chappell

Belinda Clark AO

Padma Bhushan Sunil Gavaskar

David Gower OBE

Kim Hughes

Nasser Hussain OBE

Sir Clive Lloyd CBE

Padma Bhushan Kapil Dev Nikhanj

Stephen Waugh AO, Australian of the Year 2004

John Wright MBE

What has transpired so far

Their appeal comes days after Khan was examined on Sunday (February 15, 2026) by a team of doctors after he reportedly complained of severe vision loss in his right eye, even as his party rejected the medical inspection.

The Supreme Court had ordered a detailed medical check-up of the 73-year-old before February 16. While government figures had indicated he might be shifted to a hospital, doctors were instead sent to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

A Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawyer met Khan on Supreme Court directions to assess his living conditions. The lawyer’s report said Khan claimed he had lost about 85% vision in his right eye.

Khan was taken last month to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, where a procedure was performed on his eye. PTI said the examination was unacceptable without the presence of Khan’s family, personal doctors and party representatives.

Khan served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. He was imprisoned in August 2023 and has faced charges in over 100 cases, ranging from leaking state secrets to selling state gifts, all of which he has decried as politically motivated.

A towering figure in Pakistan’s public life, Khan first earned national reverence through an illustrious cricket career. As captain, he led Pakistan to its maiden and only ODI World Cup triumph in 1992.

Earlier, legendary fast bowler and Khan’s team-mate Wasim Akram had also urged Pakistani authorities to ensure Khan “receives the best possible medical care”. Taking to X, Akram wrote: “It is heartbreaking to hear our skipper Imran Khan going through health issues. I sincerely hope the authorities take this seriously and ensure he receives the best possible medical care. Wishing him strength, a speedy recovery, and a full return to good health.”

Published on Feb 17, 2026

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