Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has added his voice to a growing international appeal for humane treatment and adequate medical care for Imran Khan, the former Pakistan cricket captain and prime minister, who is currently incarcerated and facing health challenges.
Ganguly, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, expressed hope that Khan will receive proper attention and dignity from Pakistani authorities, emphasising that the ex-Pakistan leader has made significant contributions to his country’s sporting and public life. “He has taken Pakistan to the world map, first as captain of the Pakistan cricket team and then as Prime Minister of Pakistan, so he should be looked after, and I expect he will receive right treatment,” Ganguly said.
His remarks came in support of a joint letter penned by 14 former international cricket captains, including Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, urging the government of Pakistan to ensure that Khan, 73, receives “immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing.” The signatories also appealed for humane detention conditions, regular family visits, and fair and transparent access to legal processes.
The letter, titled “Appeal by Former International Cricket Captains,” highlighted deep concern over reports of deteriorating health and incarceration conditions that have emerged over the past two and a half years. It underscored Khan’s respected legacy in cricket, notably leading Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory, and urged that respect and basic human consideration be afforded to him regardless of political differences.
Imran Khan has been in detention since August 2023 following convictions that his supporters describe as politically driven. While the appeal focuses on his welfare rather than political issues, it reflects mounting concern from prominent figures across the global cricketing community about his treatment in custody.
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