Pakistan’s cricketing community on Saturday expressed concern over the health of PTI founder Imran Khan, who captained the Green Shirts to World Cup glory in 1992.
On Thursday, the Supreme Court (SC) was informed that the right eye of Imran — who is incarcerated in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail — had only 15 per cent vision remaining, prompting a strong response from the party and the opposition.
However, Pakistan’s cricketing community has also voiced concern about the health of the former captain and called on authorities to ensure he received the best possible care.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram — who was part of the 1992 squad which won the World Cup — said it was “heartbreaking” to learn that Imran was facing health issues.
“It is heartbreaking to hear our skipper Imran Khan going through health issues. I sincerely hope the authorities take this seriously and ensure he receives the best possible medical care,” he wrote.
He also extended his prayers and good wishes for Imran’s recovery, wishing him strength, a speedy recovery and a full return to good health.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi also voiced concern, reposting an interview of his originally posted on X by journalist Anas Malik.
In the video, Afridi said that medical treatment was Imran’s basic right and should be duly provided. He stressed that appropriate medical care must be ensured without delay.
Pace great Waqar Younis also expressed concern over Imran’s health.
“Putting politics aside, our national hero who gave us our greatest glory on the sporting field, built a cancer hospital that helped so many including my own mother, is suffering a health emergency and requires urgent treatment,” he said.
Younis further requested the relevant authorities to ensure that Imran received appropriate medical treatment in a timely manner.
“I humbly request the related authorities [that] he gets the appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Get well soon, skipper. Wishing him a complete and speedy recovery,” he added.
Former captain and veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez said: “Disturbing news about [the] health of [the] undisputed legend of the game. May Allah bless him with a full recovery.”
Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar said he was “deeply saddened” to hear the news about Imran losing vision in his eye.
In a post on X, Akhtar noted that he had spent the last three months in the United States raising funds for Imran’s Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre.
“I hope he gets the best treatment and I’m wishing him a speedy recovery,” he said.
Former Pakistan captain and commentator Ramiz Raja said, “Seeing Imran Khan suffer and lose sight in one eye is an emotional meltdown. I hope humanity prevails and suffering is reduced.”