Imran Khan Health Condition: Two India legends among 14 Cricket Veterans sign letter to Pakistan Government for Humane Treatment

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In a powerful show of cross-border solidarity, the international cricket community has issued a joint appeal for better treatment of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister and cricket icon Imran Khan.

The statement, released on February 17, 2026, highlights his alarming vision loss in custody and demands immediate medical care, humane conditions, and fair legal access from the Pakistan government.

Two India legends calls out for Imran Khan

Two Indian Legends Sign Letter to Pakistan Government for Imran Khan's Better Treatment and Dignity
Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, two of India's most revered cricket figures, have boldly added their names to the appeal. Gavaskar, the legendary opener and former captain, and Kapil Dev, the 1983 World Cup-winning skipper, join global peers in urging Pakistani authorities to prioritize Khan's health and rights. This gesture underscores cricket's enduring role as a bridge amid geopolitical tensions, especially between India and Pakistan, where matches often carry intense rivalry but shared respect off the field.

Khan, who captained Pakistan to the 1992 World Cup triumph as one of the game's greatest all-rounders, has been imprisoned for over two and a half years. Recent reports, including a Pakistan Supreme Court order for a medical board to examine his vision deterioration (as covered by The Hindu), have amplified global concerns.

Full Original Statement from Cricketers for Imran Khan

17 February 2026

We, the undersigned former captains of our national cricket teams, write with deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan, the distinguished former captain of Pakistan and a legendary figure in world cricket.

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 idolising 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.

Not revenge or retaliation, but a paradigm shift

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. 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.

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.

We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives: Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues. Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, including regular visits by close family members. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.

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.

Signed: Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Sunil Gavaskar, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Kapil Dev, Steve Waugh and John Wright.