Javed Miandad, a former cricketer from Pakistan, has expressed deep emotion while discussing the imprisonment of his former teammate Imran Khan. He made a heartfelt plea for Khan’s release, asserting the captain of the 1992 World Cup-winning team is a man of integrity. This appeal comes amid rising concerns regarding Khan’s health and his treatment while incarcerated.

The 73-year-old has been in Adiala Jail, located in Rawalpindi, since his conviction on corruption charges in 2023. Recently, he underwent a medical examination in Islamabad before landing back in jail. His political party has contested the manner in which the authorities have conducted the medical assessment. Earlier, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered to shift Khan to Shifa International Hospital for a proper evaluation and mandated the involvement of doctors, including his personal physician.

Concerns Raised About Imran Khan’s Health

During an interview with the Narrative YouTube channel, Miandad articulated his belief in Khan’s honesty. He stated, “He is an honest man. He is not someone who engages in corrupt practices, otherwise he would have done a lot of things.” Miandad emphasised the humanity of Khan, questioning the implications of his continued imprisonment.

He reflected on what Khan might be enduring in his current situation. Miandad’s understanding of Khan’s character stems from their years together on the cricket field, both nationally and in county cricket. He called for dialogue among those responsible for Khan’s situation, urging them to consider solutions to the ongoing predicament.

While acknowledging past disagreements, Miandad dismissed the notion of rivalry, asserting that both players had always aimed to uplift Pakistan cricket. He stated, “We didn’t have any rivalry,” reiterating that any differences that arose did not overshadow their shared commitment to the national team.

Khan’s Family Voices Concerns

The interview featuring Miandad followed a discussion where Imran Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, voiced their apprehensions regarding their father’s health and the conditions of his imprisonment. During an appearance on Sky Sports, the brothers alleged that Khan has been isolated for more than 23 hours a day. Kasim expressed grave concerns, stating, “It’s very, very clear what they’re doing, which are they just blatantly trying to kill him in there.”

Kasim further claimed that attempts are being made to prolong Khan’s imprisonment indefinitely, suggesting authorities aim to silence him. He mentioned a recent conversation with Khan, who shared that the conditions have worsened significantly, drawing comparisons with other political prisoners who have died under similar circumstances.

The interview aired during the lunch break of a Test match at Lord’s, leading to a formal complaint from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) against Sky Sports. The PCB had expressed objections prior to the broadcast and reportedly considered keeping the Pakistan players off the field in protest.

Calls for Medical Treatment and Dignity

Former international captains, including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and Greg Chappell, have expressed their support for the need for appropriate medical care for Imran Khan. Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, has also joined the calls for dignified treatment for the former captain of Pakistan. Khan is widely revered in Pakistan, celebrated for leading the national team to its first and only men’s ODI World Cup title in 1992.

Miandad and Khan were instrumental figures in Pakistan’s cricket team during the 1980s and early 1990s, with their collaboration proving pivotal to the team’s World Cup success in Australia. In the final against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, they added a significant partnership, which played a critical role in securing victory for Pakistan.

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