Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 former captains urging humane treatment of jailed ex-PM
February 17, 2026: In a rare show of cross-border solidarity, 14 former international cricket captains, including India greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have formally appealed to the Government of Pakistan to ensure fair and humane treatment of jailed former Prime Minister and 1992 World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan. The joint statement, co-signed by Australian legend Greg Chappell and others, was addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The signatories stressed that their plea stems from the “spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity,” not political alignment, amid reports of Khan’s deteriorating health and complaints of vision loss in custody.
In their joint appeal, the captains highlighted Imran Khan’s towering legacy in world cricket, recalling his leadership in Pakistan’s historic 1992 Cricket World Cup triumph and his stature as one of the finest all-rounders and captains in the sport’s history. They expressed concern over reports of his health decline and solitary confinement since September 2023, urging authorities to provide immediate and specialised medical care, humane detention conditions, family access and fair legal proceedings. Gavaskar, reflecting on his long association with Khan, said it was “terrible” to see his former rival and friend in such circumstances.
According to recent media reports, Khan may be shifted to a hospital as concerns over his health intensify. He has reportedly been held in solitary confinement for over two years, with allegations that repeated medical complaints were ignored. Former Pakistan teammates, including Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar, have also called on authorities to ensure he receives proper medical attention. The appeal underscores cricket’s enduring role as a bridge between nations, even amid political tensions.