MUMBAI: A collective of 21 former international
The letter serves as a follow-up to an earlier appeal made in February by 14 former captains, which highlighted concerns over Khan's deteriorating health. The Supreme Court had ordered that Khan be transferred to a hospital for evaluation by a medical board, which was to include his personal doctors and his sister, Dr. Uzma Khan. Despite these orders, Khan, who is currently 73 years old and has spent over three years in jail, was returned to Adiala Jail shortly after a brief medical examination at Shifa Hospital in Islamabad.
Concerns Over Medical Treatment
In their latest letter, titled "Appeal by 21 Former International Cricket Captains on the Medical Treatment and Welfare of Imran Khan," the former captains expressed their dismay at the situation. They noted that Khan's hospital stay was alarmingly short, and he was assessed by a state-appointed team rather than the independent board mandated by the Supreme Court. The signatories, who include cricket legends like Greg Chappell and Michael Atherton, reiterated their appeal for humane treatment, stating, “We write not as politicians, but as former colleagues and rivals who share a bond forged on the cricket field.”
The letter outlines three specific requests: that the medical board be allowed to complete its assessment, that weekly family visits be maintained without interruption, and that any recommended treatment be administered promptly. Chappell emphasized the importance of adhering to the court's orders, stating, “We are not asking for anything unusual — just that a court order most countries would take for granted is actually carried out.”
A Call for Dignity and Fairness
The signatories, which also include cricketing icons like Allan Border, Adam Gilchrist, and Steve Waugh, stressed that their appeal is rooted in a desire for basic decency and fairness. They believe that ensuring the completion of a court-ordered medical process is a reasonable request that should be recognized by all nations involved in the sport. The letter concludes with a hope for a swift resolution that honors the dignity of Imran Khan, underscoring the shared values of respect and compassion within the cricketing community.
