The Pakistan Cricket Board (
The broadcast sparked an unexpected off-field controversy, with reports suggesting the PCB considered instructing the Pakistan team to remain off the field when play was scheduled to resume for the second session. Although Sky Sports initially delayed the segment, it was eventually aired during the lunch interval. The interview was not shown in Pakistan, where state broadcaster PTV holds the exclusive rights for the series.
Concerns over medical treatment and legal directives
During the conversation with Atherton, the brothers highlighted their efforts to secure appropriate medical care for the 1992 World Cup-winning captain, who has been imprisoned for approximately three years. Their public appeals have intensified recently, particularly following a directive from Pakistan's Supreme Court that ordered Imran Khan be admitted to Shifa Hospital in Islamabad for medical attention.
Family members have alleged that authorities failed to comply with the court's order, noting that the former leader was taken to the government-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a check-up before being returned to prison. The family continues to demand that he be examined by his personal physician. In response to these claims, the Pakistani government has denied allegations of mistreatment, stating that Imran Khan has received over 900 visits from family, legal counsel, and medical professionals since his imprisonment began in August 2023.
International support for the former captain
The controversy at Lord’s follows a broader international campaign involving several high-profile figures in the sport. Michael Atherton is among 21 former international captains who recently signed a letter addressed to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging the government to ensure that the former captain receives adequate medical care while in custody. The signatories include former leaders from Australia, India, New Zealand, and the West Indies.
This latest appeal follows a similar letter sent in February, which reportedly did not receive a response from the government. While the PCB has not issued a public statement regarding its complaint to Sky Sports, the incident underscores the ongoing tension surrounding the former cricketer's situation as it continues to intersect with the international sporting calendar. The PCB remains silent on the reported threat of a player protest.
