In a rare show of solidarity that cuts across borders, eras and rivalries, a group of former international cricket captains has issued a joint appeal expressing deep concern over the reported treatment and health of Imran Khan, the former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister.
The appeal, dated February 17, 2026, is framed not in political terms but in the shared values of cricket, fairness, dignity and respect, principles the signatories say transcend national allegiances and ideological divides.
Imran Khan, revered globally for leading Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup triumph, is described as one of the finest all-rounders and captains the game has produced. Many of the former captains note that they either competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up admiring his all-round brilliance, leadership and fierce competitive spirit. His legacy, they suggest, belongs to world cricket.
Beyond his achievements on the field, the letter acknowledges Khan’s role as Pakistan’s democratically elected Prime Minister, leading the country through a challenging period. Without entering the political debate, the former captains stress that his stature as a former national leader and global sporting icon demands basic human consideration.
The immediate trigger for the appeal is growing concern over reports relating to Khan’s health, particularly an alarming deterioration in his vision while in custody, as well as the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years. These reports, the signatories say, have caused profound concern within the global cricketing community.
As former players who understand the importance of fair play, honour and respect, the captains urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure three key measures. These include immediate and ongoing access to qualified medical care of Khan’s choosing, humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, including regular family visits, and fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or obstruction.
The letter also reflects on cricket’s unique ability to act as a bridge between nations. Rivalries may be fierce, it notes, but they end when the stumps are drawn, while mutual respect endures. Imran Khan, the former captains argue, embodied that spirit throughout his career.
Signed by some of the most respected names in cricket history, including former leaders from England, Australia, India and the West Indies, the appeal is presented explicitly as an act of sportsmanship and shared humanity. It is made without prejudice to any ongoing legal proceedings.
At its heart, the message is simple. Regardless of political views, the principles of decency, justice and human dignity must prevail. In lending their collective voices, these former captains have reminded the world that cricket’s moral compass does not stop at the boundary rope, and that its greatest figures continue to command the game’s conscience long after they leave the field
