Javed, Moin voice concern over Imran Khan’s health, call for release

Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad and ex-wicketkeeper Moin Khan have expressed concern over former prime minister Imran Khan's health in prison, with both calling on the government to respect his rights and ensure appropriate medical care.

Miandad became the first high-profile Pakistan cricketer to publicly comment on Imran's continued imprisonment and call for his release. Speaking on the Narratives podcast in an emotional interview recorded last week, Miandad urged the government to resolve its differences with Imran, who has been in jail since August 2023, reports Cricinfo.

"I pray that what's going on with him gets resolved, because he does not deserve this," Miandad said. "What's being done to him is not right. It's unnecessary. He has a family too."

Recalling their playing days, Miandad said he remained deeply concerned about Imran's situation.

"We were so close. We used to be together and think so much of each other. We took Pakistan to such new heights. I can't help but feel so sad about it," he said.

Moin, who played alongside Imran for Pakistan, also appealed to the government in a video posted on X, urging it to respect the former prime minister's rights and provide appropriate treatment.

"Imran Khan is very unwell," Moin said. "I appeal to the government of Pakistan that Imran be granted his rights as a former prime minister and citizen of Pakistan with regards to his treatment."

He also urged other Pakistan cricketers to speak in support of Imran, saying the former captain had contributed significantly to Pakistan cricket.

Miandad and Imran were key figures in Pakistan's success during the 1980s and early 1990s. Both captained the national side and played together for Sussex.

Rejecting suggestions of a bitter rivalry, Miandad said, "There was no rivalry between me and Imran. There was no fight between us."

Last week, 22 former international captains signed an open letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif seeking adequate healthcare for Imran and respect for court orders protecting his constitutional rights, including family visits. Australia captain Pat Cummins has also backed the appeal.

"There's so much respect in the world for Imran. He has given Pakistan so much," Miandad said, calling for the former prime minister's release.

The Pakistan government has rejected allegations that Imran has been denied proper medical care or completely isolated in prison, citing more than 900 visitor entries involving family members, lawyers, doctors and party members.