New Delhi, 17 February (H.S.): A coalition of former international cricket captains from around the world urged the Pakistan government on Tuesday to ensure that ex-Prime Minister and 1992 World Cup-winning skipper Imran Khan receives immediate, adequate, and continuous medical care in jail, alongside dignified and humane treatment.

In a joint statement released on February 17, the group expressed profound concern over Imran Khan's deteriorating health, particularly the decline in his eyesight. Signatories include Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Mike Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Sunil Gavaskar, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Kapil Dev, Stephen Waugh, and John Wright.

The statement celebrates Imran Khan's legacy, noting his instrumental role in Pakistan's historic 1992 World Cup triumph and his status as one of cricket's greatest all-rounders and captains. Setting aside political differences, it emphasizes his tenure as a democratically elected leader, warranting treatment aligned with international standards.

The captains invoked principles of sportsmanship, respect, and humanity as the impetus for their appeal.Supreme Court-Ordered Medical Check

Pursuant to Supreme Court directives, a medical examination of the 73-year-old Imran Khan was conducted recently at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

Reports indicate he complained of losing nearly 85 percent vision in his right eye, prompting a team of doctors to visit the facility. His party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has questioned the process and demanded the presence of family members and private physicians.

Former fast bowler Wasim Akram voiced similar apprehensions via social media, appealing for optimal medical facilities for his ex-captain and expressing hope for comprehensive care.

Imran Khan served as Pakistan's Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022 and has been incarcerated since August 2023, facing over 100 cases, which he deems politically motivated.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar