Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis Urge Pakistan Govt To Provide Medical Care To Imran Khan

Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Imran Khan [Source: @Rnawaz0, @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]

Concerns over former Pakistan captain Imran Khan’s health have prompted several leading figures from the cricketing world to call for him to be provided appropriate medical treatment in prison, after reports suggested he has suffered significant vision loss in one eye. The erstwhile Pakistan Premier has been in prison since August 2023 and is currently in what has been described as virtual solitary confinement.

According to Khan's legal team, he has been dealing with an eye infection that has resulted in severe vision impairment in his right eye, while also alleging that his health has deteriorated due to lack of adequate medical attention. 

Wasim Akram’s emotional message for his skipper

As reports of his condition emerged, former Pakistan greats Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis led public appeals urging authorities to ensure that the former captain receives timely and proper medical care.

Wasim Akram, who has always called Imran Khan the biggest influence on his career, was among the first to speak out, and his message carried both respect and concern.

“It is heartbreaking to hear our skipper Imran Khan going through health issues,” Wasim wrote on X. “I sincerely hope the authorities take this seriously and ensure he receives the best possible medical care. Wishing him strength, a speedy recovery, and a full return to good health.”

Waqar Younis urges authorities to act swiftly

Former Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis also issued a strong appeal, asking that the situation be viewed beyond politics and emphasising Imran’s contributions to the country.

“Putting politics aside, our national hero who gave us our greatest glory on the sporting field, a cancer hospital [which] helped so many, including my own mother, is suffering a health emergency and requires urgent treatment,” Waqar wrote. 

“I humbly request the related authorities he gets the appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Get well soon skipper,” he added.

Cricket fraternity unites for Imran Khan

Shoaib Akhtar, who recently spent months in the USA raising funds for Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital, said he was deeply saddened by reports of Imran losing vision in one eye and hoped he gets the best treatment soon.

Shahid Afridi called medical access a basic human right that must be provided. Ramiz Raja said it was painful to see Imran suffer and hoped humanity prevails. Mohammad Hafeez also joined in, wishing the former skipper well and asking authorities to ensure proper medical attention.

Support even from across the border

Former India batter Ajay Jadeja called on Pakistan’s cricketing community to stand behind Imran and proved once again that when it comes to cricket legends and health, nationality takes a back seat.

Because beyond politics and positions, Imran Khan remains one of cricket’s most influential figures, a man who led Pakistan to the 1992 World Cup, built institutions and inspired generations of cricketers.

Imran Khan fighting his toughest spell

Imran Khan, now 73, has been in prison since August 2023 and is serving multiple sentences on charges that he and his supporters say are politically motivated. Government representatives have denied claims that his health has worsened due to neglect.

But for his former teammates, this isn’t about legal battles or political narratives. It is about a captain who once led from the front now needing support from his own team.