Imran Khan’s Health Concerns Raised by Cricket Legends

Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and ex-Prime Minister, has come under the spotlight as fourteen ex-international cricket captains, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have appealed to the Pakistan government for his appropriate medical care and fair treatment, as reported by PTI on Tuesday.

Khan, aged 73, is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail. Reports indicate that the 1992 World Cup-winning captain has suffered a considerable loss of vision, with approximately 85 per cent impairment in his right eye attributed to medical neglect during his time in custody.

Letter from Former Cricket Captains

In a letter entitled “Appeal by former International Cricket Captains,” the group conveyed their “deep concern” over Khan’s health and the conditions he has endured during his imprisonment over the last two and a half years.

The letter states, “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 signatories have expressed their worries about his deteriorating health, particularly regarding his vision, and the conditions of his confinement. “As fellow cricketers who appreciate the values of fair play, honour, and respect that extend beyond the boundary rope, we believe that an individual of Imran Khan’s stature deserves treatment reflecting the dignity and basic human rights befitting a former national leader and global sports icon,” they stated.

Signatories of the Letter

In addition to Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, notable cricket figures such as Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and John Wright have also endorsed the letter.

In 2023, Khan received a 14-year prison sentence in connection to a corruption case.

Request for Medical and Legal Support

The former captains advocated for proper medical attention, transparent legal proceedings, and dignified treatment for Khan. They stated, “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.”

They further requested that he be housed in humane conditions and allowed regular visits with close family, while also being granted fair and timely access to legal processes.

Spirits of Sportsmanship and Humanity

The captains highlighted how cricket has often served as a connector between nations, asserting that while rivalries may occur on the field, mutual respect should prevail. They observed that Imran Khan epitomised that spirit throughout his career.

The letter called upon authorities to maintain standards of decency and justice, emphasising that the appeal was made in the spirit of sportsmanship and human compassion, free from any bias regarding ongoing legal actions.

The former captains also acknowledged Khan’s contributions both on and off the cricket field, noting his achievements are widely respected. They recalled his impressive leadership and resilience in guiding Pakistan to its 1992 Cricket World Cup victory, which has inspired generations.

Many of the signatories expressed that they either faced him in competition, shared the pitch with him, or admired him from afar as young fans. They depicted him as one of the greatest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, held in high regard by peers and fans alike.

The letter also touched upon Khan’s political journey, recognising his role as Pakistan’s Prime Minister during challenging times, highlighting that he was democratically elected to the nation’s highest office.

(With inputs from PTI)