New Delhi, Aug 23: Twenty-one former cricket captains from around the world, including Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Dilip Vengsarkar, have appealed for former Pakistan prime minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan to receive appropriate medical treatment.
The appeal comes amid concerns over the health and medical care of Imran Khan, who is currently in prison in Pakistan.
The former cricketers have called for the former Pakistan captain to be provided access to necessary medical facilities and treatment, according to a report published by Deccan Herald.
Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Vengsarkar are among the prominent former captains associated with the appeal. Imran Khan, who led Pakistan to its only ODI World Cup triumph in 1992, remains one of the most prominent figures in the history of Pakistan cricket.
The appeal brings together former captains from different cricket-playing nations, reflecting concern over the health of a fellow former international cricketer and captain.
Imran, 73, has been imprisoned since August 2023 following his conviction in a number of cases. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has repeatedly raised concerns over his treatment in custody and his access to medical care.
The former Pakistan captain has faced several legal cases since his removal from office as prime minister in April 2022. He has denied allegations against him and his supporters have described the cases as politically motivated.
Imran remains an influential figure in Pakistan despite being behind bars. His cricket career saw him emerge as one of Pakistan’s greatest all-rounders before he became captain and eventually led the country to its historic 1992 World Cup victory.
The appeal by the former captains focuses on ensuring that Imran receives appropriate medical attention and that his health concerns are dealt with through proper medical care.
The participation of former Indian captains Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Vengsarkar is particularly notable given the longstanding cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan.
The appeal represents a rare expression of solidarity among former international cricket leaders over the wellbeing of one of the sport’s most celebrated former captains.
