Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has called for former Pakistan captain Imran Khan to be treated with dignity and proper care as concerns grow over the latter’s health in prison.
Ganguly’s comments followed a joint appeal by 14 former national team captains from the five Test-matching nations urging the Pakistani government to ensure improved prison conditions and proper medical care for the World Cup-winning leader. “They did the right thing. So, I am sure Imran Khan must be taken care of and respected,” Ganguly told reporters.
The petition, started by former Australia captain Greg Chappell, has been submitted to Prime Minister Sherbaz Sharif, The Age reported. Signatories include Indian superstars Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, as well as Australia’s Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark and Kim Hughes Hughes); England’s Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brierley and David Gower; West Indies legend Clive Lloyd; and New Zealand’s John Wright.
In the letter, the former captain expressed “deep concern” over reports of Khan’s deteriorating health, particularly that his eyesight had deteriorated significantly while incarcerated in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, where he was held for more than two years on corruption charges. They stressed that a man like him deserves humane treatment, medical care from experts of his choice, regular family visits and fair legal proceedings.
The appeal highlights cricket’s long-standing role in promoting respect that transcends competition, urging authorities to uphold the principles of decency and justice. Gavaskar described the situation as “terrible” and noted that they had developed a long-standing friendship before the match on the field.
Supporters claim Khan has lost 85% of the vision in his right eye and has struggled to get help from family and private doctors. He and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been in prison since August 2023, with their most recent convictions totaling 31 years in prison.