Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev Among 14 Former Captains Urge Pakistan Government To Give Imran Khan “Immediate Medical Attention”

A group of 14 former international cricket captains — including India greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev — have appealed to the Pakistan government to ensure former Pakistan Prime Minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan receives “immediate medical attention,” citing concerns over reports about his health and prison conditions.

According to the report, the former captains said recent updates about Imran Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly issues related to his vision, have caused them “profound concern.” The petition was reportedly drafted by former Australia captain Greg Chappell and delivered to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday afternoon.

The letter, signed by captains from five Test-playing nations, also referred to Imran Khan’s status as a global sporting icon and former national leader, calling for dignified treatment consistent with basic humanitarian standards.

What the former captains are demanding

The former captains listed three key demands from the Pakistan government:

1. Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of Imran Khan’s choosing to address reported health issues.

2. Humane and dignified detention conditions in line with international standards, including regular visits by close family members.

3. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.

Who signed the appeal

Besides Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Greg Chappell, the signatories reportedly include former Australia captains Allan Border, Belinda Clark, Ian Chappell, Steve Waugh and Kim Hughes; former England captains Mike Atherton, Mike Brearley, David Gower and Nasser Hussain; former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd; and former New Zealand captain John Wright.

Context: reports about health and custody conditions

The report states Imran Khan has been imprisoned for about two-and-a-half years and references claims that the 73-year-old is experiencing serious vision-related issues, adding to concerns about the conditions of his detention.

Separately, the report notes that Pakistan fast-bowling great Wasim Akram also urged authorities to ensure Imran Khan receives the best possible medical care, calling the reports “heartbreaking” in a post on X