Seven former Australian cricket captains have written to Australia’s foreign minister, Penny Wong, expressing concern over the humanitarian situation of Imran Khan, Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister and cricket captain. The letter was signed by Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh.
They made clear that they were not speaking as diplomats or political figures, but felt the need to speak up on Imran Khan’s situation as former captains. They said they were not taking a position on the ongoing legal or political case against Khan, viewing that as Pakistan’s own internal matter. Their concern, they said, is over how someone in custody is being treated. “Whatever one’s political position, humane treatment of anyone in detention is a matter of basic humanity,” they said.
This is the latest such effort by former world cricket stars on Imran Khan’s behalf. On August 23, 22 former international captains from various countries had written to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling for better medical treatment for Khan. They argued that his current medical care did not meet the standards set by the Supreme Court’s directives.
That letter made three specific demands. First, that the medical board formed under Supreme Court order include Khan’s own physicians and be allowed a full, independent assessment of his health — particularly examining reports that he had lost sight in his right eye. Second, that the weekly family visits reinstated by court order continue without obstruction or administrative delay. Third, that whatever the results of medical examinations, doctors’ recommended treatment be provided promptly.
Before that, 14 former international captains had sent the first such letter on Imran’s behalf this past February. Pakistan’s own former cricketers Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Moin Khan have since also spoken out on the issue. Current Australia captain Pat Cummins has also expressed concern over Imran’s situation.
In their latest letter, the former Australian captains noted that Imran’s son and sisters have for several months been publicly raising concerns about his health and his treatment in prison. Their allegations include limited medical care, restricted contact with family members, and limited access to his lawyers. Greg Chappell had also requested a meeting with Australia’s foreign minister Penny Wong last month over Imran’s situation, but has not yet received a response.