'Deserves to be treated with dignity': Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 captains write to Pakistan govt to support Imran Khan

Fourteen former international cricket captains, including India legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have written a joint letter to the Government of Pakistan, urging authorities to ensure better treatment and proper care for former Pakistan captain and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The cricketing greats have raised serious concerns about Imran Khan’s health and condition inside the prison, where he has been since 2023. The former World Cup-winning captain has been in Pakistan jail for over two years, and there have been reports about his deteriorating health, including partial loss of vision.

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In their one-page statement, which has been published by several media outlets, the 14 captains urged the Pakistan government to ensure that Imran Khan receives immediate and proper medical treatment and regular visits from close family members. They also urged for fair and transparent access to legal processes.

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"As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan's stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon," the letter read.

Big names join the Imran Khan appeal

Apart from Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, the other signatories include former Australia captain Greg Chappell, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Michael Atherton, Michael Brearley, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd and John Wright.

"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 idolizing 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."

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"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."

"Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn - and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.

"We call on authorities to honour it now by upholding the principles of decency and justice. This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings."