Following an earlier letter by 22 international captains urging the humane treatment of Imran, several Australian greats have now joined forces to seek a diplomatic resolution. A total of seven former Australian captains have written to their government, seeking support in a bid to urge authorities in Pakistan to provide jailed former cricket captain Imran Khan with better treatment. On Tuesday, these former Australian captains wrote to the country’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, to intervene diplomatically as concerns grow over Imran’s well-being.
In a statement, the group of seven captains clarified that they take “no position on the legal or political case against Mr Khan”, describing it as a matter for Pakistan to resolve alone. However, they expressed deep concern over the treatment Imran is receiving in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, calling it “a matter of basic humanity, whatever their politics”. When asked about the necessity of writing the letter, Chappell said: “We are concerned that he will die in jail.”
Greg Chappell, one of the most respected cricketing figures in Australia, has requested a meeting with Senator Wong to discuss Imran’s case, particularly after the former Pakistan captain’s sons alleged a serious threat to his life in a recent interview. “Mr Khan led Pakistan to its only World Cup title. He also led his country as Prime Minister. Australians hold him in great regard – as a cricketer whose skill and leadership left a lasting mark on the game we share, and as someone who has helped improve the lives of Pakistanis by building cancer hospitals,” it added.
