Seven former Australia captains have written to Foreign Minister Penny Wong urging the Australian Government to raise concerns with Pakistan over the welfare and treatment of former Pakistan Prime Minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan. This is the third appeal from former international captains in seven months.
Amid widespread reports of deteriorating health of the Pakistan legend, who is said to have lost partial vision, fourteen international captains had previously written to the Government of Pakistan for better treatment of the former superstar in all aspects concerning the well-being of a human.
“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,” the joint statement read.
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
