Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar Back Petition for Imran Khan’s Medical Care, Says Greg Chappell

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has revealed that Indian legends Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar were among the first to back a petition calling for proper medical care and humane treatment for jailed former Pakistan captain Imran Khan.

Khan, who also served as Pakistan’s prime minister from 2018 to 2022, has been in jail for over two years following corruption charges. Recent reports have raised concerns about his health, including claims that he has nearly lost sight in one eye due to alleged medical negligence while in custody.

Chappell, regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, launched a petition earlier this week signed by several former international cricket captains. The appeal urges authorities to ensure Khan receives appropriate medical attention and is treated in accordance with humanitarian standards.

Speaking to Australian journalists Gideon Haigh and Peter Lalor, Chappell said he had long been troubled by Khan’s situation but initially questioned whether his lone voice would make a difference.

“I’ve been following and keeping in contact with him as much as possible, but since he’s been in jail, it’s been impossible,” Chappell said, noting that even close family members have reportedly struggled to see him. “I thought, what difference does one voice make? So I spoke to other captains to see if we could make a collective statement that might carry more weight.”

India-Pakistan political tensions have historically complicated public support across borders. During his tenure as prime minister, Khan often took firm positions on India-related issues, despite having longstanding personal relationships in Indian cricket circles from his playing days.

Chappell admitted he was surprised by how quickly Kapil Dev and Gavaskar agreed to support the initiative. “Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev probably had more pressure than the rest of us, but they both reacted instantly,” he said. “They’ve been friends for a long time.”

Gavaskar, speaking earlier, emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the appeal. He recalled knowing Khan since his teenage years and said that regardless of political differences, basic human care must be upheld.

“Whatever the political differences are, we believe that he should be looked after in a humane manner and given proper medical care,” Gavaskar said in remarks reported by Indian media.

Other cricketing figures who signed the petition include Ian Chappell, Clive Lloyd, Allan Border, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Steve Waugh, John Wright, Kim Hughes and Belinda Clark.

The petition underscores how sporting ties can transcend political divisions, particularly in the case of figures like Khan, whose legacy spans both cricket and politics. While the initiative does not carry official governmental authority, it reflects growing concern among former players about the welfare of one of cricket’s most prominent personalities.