From Kapil Dev to Gavaskar: 14 cricket greats step in for jailed Imran Khan, write to Pakistan govt

In the letter, the signatories expressed deep concern over Khan’s reported health condition and incarceration circumstances, calling for fair and transparent access to medical treatment and legal processes.

“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 statement read.

Among the prominent cricketers who signed the letter are 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.

The former captains referred to Khan’s leadership in guiding Pakistan to victory in the 1992 World Cup, describing it as a moment defined by resilience, sportsmanship and inspiration that transcended national boundaries.

“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising his all-round brilliance, charisma and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen,” the statement added.

The cricketers emphasised that cricket has historically served as a bridge between nations and urged Pakistani authorities to ensure Khan receives appropriate medical care and due legal process without undue delay.

Concerns over health deterioration

According to a report submitted by Supreme Court-appointed amicus curiae Salman Safdar, Khan has suffered significant deterioration in his right eye while incarcerated at Adiala Jail.

The report states that Khan experienced persistent blurred and hazy vision for several months prior to October 2025. Despite reportedly informing prison authorities repeatedly about his worsening condition, no immediate specialised medical intervention was arranged.

The situation escalated when Khan allegedly suffered a sudden and near-complete loss of vision in his right eye. An ophthalmologist from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital was subsequently called in. Medical examination revealed a blood clot that caused extensive damage, leaving him with approximately 15 percent functional vision in the affected eye despite receiving treatment.

The amicus curiae, who personally visited Khan in jail, documented visible physical distress and noted that the former prime minister appeared deeply troubled by the loss of eyesight and the delay in receiving medical attention.

Solitary confinement and restrictions

The report further states that Khan has been held in solitary confinement since his transfer to Adiala Jail in October 2023. He has reportedly remained in the same designated confinement area for nearly two years and four months.

The prolonged isolation has raised concerns regarding both his physical and psychological well-being. The report notes that extended solitary confinement can have significant mental health implications, particularly for elderly detainees with pre-existing health conditions.

In addition, the document highlights restrictions on Khan’s contact with family members. While he has reportedly been permitted weekly 30-minute meetings with his wife following a recent administrative change, access to other family members has been limited.

According to the report, his sons, Kasim and Suleman, were allowed only two phone calls throughout 2025. The document states that such restrictions have contributed to his sense of isolation and emotional strain.

The report refrains from drawing political conclusions but details the circumstances surrounding Khan’s health and detention conditions, which have drawn international attention.