In a coordinated effort that underscores the close ties forged on the cricket field, a group of 22 former international captains has renewed its appeal to Pakistan’s prime minister for a thorough medical review of former prime minister and cricket legend Imran Khan.
Letter to the prime minister
The letter, addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, cites a Supreme Court order that required Khan to be examined by a medical board that would include his personal physicians and his sister, Dr. Uzma Khan. The captains note that Khan’s recent hospital stay in Islamabad lasted only a few hours, that he was examined by a state‑appointed team rather than the court‑mandated board, and that he was returned to Adiala prison in Rawalpindi before the board could complete its work.
Recent medical check and prison status
According to government statements, Khan was taken to a government hospital for a brief examination, after which doctors declared him 100 % medically fit. He was then transferred back to Adiala prison, where officials say he continues to receive regular visits – more than 900 since his incarceration began in 2023 – and weekly meetings with his wife. The Ministry of Information also reported that his sisters visited him on Aug. 18 and 19.
Disputed health claims
Earlier this year, Khan’s family claimed he had lost about 85 % of the vision in his right eye, a claim the government disputed. Authorities later said his condition was improving after treatment. Khan’s lawyers and family have also alleged that the government is defying a court order that required his examination at the private Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, citing security concerns and the presence of supporters outside the facility.
Cricket captains’ motivation
The signatories, which include Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev as well as Australian legends Greg and Ian Chappell, emphasized that they are not acting as politicians but as former colleagues and rivals who share a bond forged on the cricket field. Their appeal is framed as a matter of fairness and due process, rather than a judgment on Pakistan’s domestic legal system.
Government response
Pakistan’s government rejected the captains’ allegations, stating that Khan was examined by doctors from the private hospital and that security considerations prevented a transfer to Shifa International. Officials also denied claims of cruelty, mental torture, punitive solitary confinement, or medical neglect, noting that Khan has been allowed regular contact with family, lawyers, doctors and political representatives.
Broader context
Imran Khan, 73, led Pakistan to the 1992 Cricket World Cup title before entering politics, serving as prime minister from 2018 until his removal in 2022. His ongoing legal battles and imprisonment have drawn international attention, and the renewed appeal by former cricket captains adds a high‑profile, cross‑border dimension to the debate over his health and legal rights.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
