Cricket icon Wasim Akram has joined a growing contingent of international sports figures expressing deep concern for former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan, emphasizing that the health of his former mentor must not be compromised.
In a candid interview with The Athletic, Akram reflected on his personal relationship with Khan, noting that political developments surrounding his former captain have been distressing to watch from afar.
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“He’s my friend, I miss him a lot,” Akram shared. “I haven’t spoken to him for three years. It’s so unfortunate, politically, what’s happening with him. The court of law is the court of law. But as far as his health is concerned, there can be no compromise on that.”
Akram credited Khan as a key mentor who shaped his early international career, while Khan historically regarded Akram as one of the most naturally gifted bowlers in cricket history.
A Growing Global Appeal
Akram’s statement follows an expanding international movement calling for basic humanitarian standards regarding Khan’s detention.
- International Captains: A collective open letter signed by 22 former international captains was recently sent to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, requesting that Khan be granted basic dignity, including regular access to his family and personal physician.
- Global Figures: Current Australian captain Pat Cummins and West Indies legend Brian Lara have publicly supported the sentiment, with Lara stating that Khan deserves basic humanity as a legend of the sport.
- Domestic Legends: Within Pakistan, former stars including Javed Miandad, Moin Khan, and Ramiz Raja have publicly called for an amicable resolution to political disputes and appropriate medical care for Khan.
Controversy Over Broadcast and Conditions
The issue recently drew broadcast attention during the ongoing Test series between England and Pakistan. An interview aired by Sky Sports featuring Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, raised concerns regarding their father’s security and health in custody.
While Pakistani government representatives maintain that Khan receives regular medical evaluations and permitted visitation, Akram expressed difficulty in assessing conflicting reports.
“There’s a movement in England and elsewhere to improve Imran’s conditions,” Akram stated. “I’m speaking from the heart as someone who is worried about him as a person. Convicted or not convicted. Jail or no jail. We need to safeguard his health. The government says his health apparently is fine, but I’m worried.”
