Gavaskar, Kapil Among 14 Captains Urge Fair Treatment for Khan

February 17, 2026

A group of 14 former international cricket captains, including Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have written a joint letter to the Government of Pakistan urging authorities to ensure fair, humane and dignified treatment for former Pakistan Prime Minister and 1992 World Cup‑winning captain Imran Khan, who is currently in jail.

The appeal, addressed to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reflects deep concern over Khan’s reported deteriorating health and jail conditions, with signatories calling for appropriate medical care, regular family visits and transparent legal process while he remains incarcerated.

International Cricket Icons Unite

The letter was co‑signed by legendary cricket figures from five countries, including Australia’s Greg Chappell and Steve Waugh, England’s Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain, West Indies legend Sir Clive Lloyd, and others. Collectively, these captains highlighted Khan’s contributions to the sport and insisted that sportsmanship and humanity transcend national rivalries.

“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,” the statement said, underscoring that the appeal was made on the basis of common humanity and respect for a fellow cricketer, rather than political alignment.

Concerns Over Health and Conditions in Custody

The letter comes amid troubling reports about Khan’s health including significant loss of vision in his right eye and inadequate medical attention while in custody. Khan, 73, has been incarcerated since 2023 on various legal charges and his family and supporters have repeatedly raised concerns about the quality of medical care and living conditions he is receiving in jail.

The captains urged that Khan be allowed immediate and ongoing medical attention from specialists of his choosing, provided with humane detention conditions, and granted fair and transparent access to legal proceedings without undue hindrance.

Letter Highlights Respect Beyond Rivalry

In emphasising Khan’s stature as both a cricketing icon and a former national leader, the appeal noted that his leadership in Pakistan’s historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory “inspired generations across borders.” The signatories recalled shared experiences on and off the field and stressed that respect for human dignity is paramount, regardless of political or national affiliations.

The unified statement from such respected figures in the cricket community has drawn attention worldwide, spotlighting concerns about Khan’s treatment and prompting calls for accountability from the Pakistani authorities.