Seven former Australia cricket captains have raised concerns about the continued imprisonment of former Pakistan prime minister and cricketer Imran Khan.
The former captains have written a letter to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. They expressed concerns about the treatment of the former Pakistani leader while in detention.
Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh signed the letter.
They described their concerns as an issue of “basic humanity.” The former captains said they felt compelled to speak about the situation.
The signatories stressed that they were not acting as diplomats or political figures. Instead, they were speaking as former cricket captains.
They also clarified that they were not taking a position on the legal or political case involving Imran Khan. They said those matters should be decided within Pakistan.
Their concerns focused on the treatment of people in detention. They said such concerns should apply regardless of a person’s political views.
Imran Khan, 73, has remained imprisoned since 2023. He was sentenced to 17 years in prison late last year.
His wife, Bushra Bibi, was also sentenced in the same corruption case. Both have denied the allegations against them.
A spokesperson for Penny Wong told the Sydney Morning Herald about Australia’s position.
The spokesperson said Australia regularly raises Khan’s case with Pakistani authorities. Australia also continues to urge authorities to provide him with appropriate medical care.
The latest appeal comes after another international cricket-related initiative.
Last month, 22 international cricketers signed a letter calling for medical treatment for Imran Khan. The latest letter adds further international cricket voices to concerns about his detention.
The Pakistani government has rejected allegations of mistreatment. Officials have maintained that his imprisonment follows prison regulations and court directions.
Authorities have also cited security arrangements for high-profile prisoners.
The issue continues to attract attention from former cricketers and international figures. The latest letter highlights concerns surrounding Khan’s detention and access to medical care.
In other news read more about Constitutional Court Seeks Nationwide Records After Imran Khan Gets Private Hospital Facility
Australian authorities have said they will continue raising the matter with Pakistani officials.
