In a heartfelt expression of concern, former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced his worries about the deteriorating health of Pakistan’s ex-captain and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Speaking to the media in Kolkata, Ganguly emphasized that Khan deserves immediate medical attention and the respect befitting his stature.
‘I hope his health improves and he gets the right treatment,’ Ganguly said. ‘He put Pakistan on the world map, first as captain of their cricket team and later as Prime Minister. It’s only right that he is looked after and given the respect he deserves.’
This comes on the heels of a joint statement from 14 former international cricket captains, including India’s Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, urging the Pakistani government to ensure proper medical care and humane treatment for the 1992 World Cup winner. Khan has been in jail since 2023, with recent reports highlighting serious health issues, including weakening eyesight.
The captains’ open letter demands ‘immediate, adequate, and continuous medical care from qualified specialists’ and humane custody conditions meeting international standards, including regular family visits. ‘Recent reports of his health decline, particularly his vision loss in custody, have deeply troubled us,’ the statement read.
Highlighting Khan’s legacy, they noted his role in Pakistan’s historic 1992 World Cup triumph as a symbol of skill, leadership, and sportsmanship. ‘Beyond politics, he was a democratically elected leader and a global cricket icon,’ they added. The signatories include Greg Chappell, Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Mike Brearley, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh, and John Wright.
‘Cricket has always bridged nations. Respect endures beyond the field,’ the letter concluded, calling on authorities to uphold dignity and justice. Ganguly’s comments echo this sentiment, underscoring the shared values of sportsmanship that transcend borders.