‘Imran Khan deserves to be treated with dignity and basic human consideration’: former captains

Cricket legends unite, urging humane treatment and medical care for Imran Khan amidst concerns over his prison conditions.

The international cricketing fraternity has rallied around Imran Khan, the former Pakistan Prime Minister and cricket captain. Through a joint-statement issued by legends ranging from Sunil Gavaskar to Greg Chappell, World Cup winning captains like Kapil Dev, Clive Lloyd and Steve Waugh, and champion players like Michael Atherton and Belinda Clark, immediate and adequate medical assistance was sought for the ailing Pakistan legend, who is suffering in prison now.

17 February 2026

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 idolising 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.