A group of 14 former international cricket captains has issued a joint humanitarian appeal to the Government of Pakistan, urging authorities to ensure proper medical care, humane treatment, and fair legal proceedings for former Prime Minister and World Cup–winning captain Imran Khan.
The appeal reflects growing international concern over reports of Imran Khan’s declining health while in custody, highlighting the responsibility of states to uphold basic human rights regardless of political circumstances.
Greg Chappell Leads Global Cricket Appeal to Pakistan Government
The petition was initiated by former Australian captain Greg Chappell and formally addressed to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
In the letter, the former captains expressed “deep and profound concern” over reports relating to Imran Khan’s health condition, particularly allegations of deteriorating eyesight and prolonged isolation during more than two years of incarceration.
List of Former International Captains Supporting Imran Khan
The appeal was signed by some of the most respected names in world cricket, representing multiple cricketing nations:
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Sunil Gavaskar (India)
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Kapil Dev (India)
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Allan Border (Australia)
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Steve Waugh (Australia)
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Ian Chappell (Australia)
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Belinda Clark (Australia)
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Kim Hughes (Australia)
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Mike Atherton (England)
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Nasser Hussain (England)
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Mike Brearley (England)
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David Gower (England)
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Clive Lloyd (West Indies)
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John Wright (New Zealand)
Their collective voice underscores the global significance of the issue and the respect Imran Khan commands across generations of cricket leadership.
Concerns Over Health Conditions at Adiala Prison
The former captains highlighted reports regarding Imran Khan’s detention at Adiala Prison, where he has been held following convictions in corruption-related cases.
According to the appeal, supporters and observers have raised alarms about:
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Alleged deterioration of eyesight
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Limited access to specialized medical care
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Restricted family visits
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Prolonged detention conditions affecting physical and mental well-being
The signatories urged Pakistani authorities to allow immediate and continuous medical evaluation by qualified specialists in line with international humanitarian norms.
Call for Humane Treatment and Fair Legal Process
Beyond medical concerns, the former captains called for detention conditions that meet global human rights standards, regular family access, and a transparent, timely legal process.
They emphasized that the principles of sportsmanship, dignity, fairness, and respect—values central to cricket—should extend beyond the field of play and guide the treatment of a former national leader and globally respected sports figure.
Cricket’s Unifying Spirit and Imran Khan’s Legacy
Several of the signatories also shared public remarks supporting the appeal, describing Imran Khan as a symbol of cricket’s power to unite nations beyond political and cultural divisions.
The group noted that cricket has long served as a bridge between countries, with mutual respect among players enduring long after rivalries end. They stressed that Imran Khan embodied those ideals throughout his playing career and deserves treatment consistent with the same values today.
Why This Appeal Matters Globally
The joint appeal by former cricket captains highlights how sport, human rights, and global diplomacy intersect. As a former World Cup champion and national leader, Imran Khan’s case has drawn international attention, reinforcing calls for humane treatment, medical transparency, and adherence to international standards of justice.
