In their joint letter, the cricket greats described Imran Khan as not just a former political leader but one of the finest all-rounders and captains the game has ever seen
In a rare and emotional appeal that rises above borders and politics, 14 former international cricket captains, including India’s Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have written to the Government of Pakistan expressing serious concern over the health and detention conditions of former Pakistan Prime Minister and cricket legend Imran Khan.
In their joint letter, the cricket greats described Imran Khan as not just a former political leader but one of the finest all-rounders and captains the game has ever seen. They recalled his historic leadership in guiding Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, a triumph that inspired millions across nations.
The signatories said many of them had either competed against Khan, shared the field with him, or admired his cricketing brilliance from afar. They emphasized that regardless of political differences, Imran Khan remains a democratically elected former Prime Minister and a global sporting icon deserving dignity and respect.
The former captains expressed deep concern over recent reports about Khan’s health, particularly claims of deteriorating vision and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years.
In their appeal, they urged Pakistani authorities to ensure:
Immediate and proper medical treatment from qualified specialists of his choice
Humane and dignified detention conditions in line with international standards
Regular access to family members
Fair and transparent legal proceedings without unnecessary delays
The cricket legends said their appeal was made purely in the spirit of sportsmanship and humanity, without interfering in any legal matters.
“Cricket has always been a bridge between nations,” the letter noted. “Rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn respect endures.”
The development highlights how the cricketing fraternity continues to stand united in moments of concern, reminding the world that the spirit of the game transcends political boundaries.
Full text of the petition signed by the 14 former international captains:
“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”.
