Imran Khan to be shifted to hospital after calls from former cricketers, opposition

Incarcerated former Pakistan captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is claimed to have lost 85% of his vision due to an eye infection, is set to be shifted out of prison following calls from former cricketers as well as his party workers. 

Minister confirms Khan’s shift out of prison for treatment

A government minister confirmed the decision, though it remains unclear when the former cricketer will be moved out.

Imran Khan, who was arrested in August 2023 and has been under solitary confinement since, was recently denied visits from family and party workers.

His legal team has revealed that without medical intervention, Khan could permanently lose his vision. This was followed by a parliamentary sit-in by his party workers and other opposition members against the government. 

Fans lambast former cricketers for silence

With the backlash from fans over their silence, many former cricketers also joined the calls and appealed for the World Cup-winning captain to be provided with appropriate treatment.

Posting on his X (formerly Twitter) account, former left-arm pacer Wasim Akram, who played under Khan’s captaincy during the team’s victory in the 1992 ODI World Cup, requested the authorities to allow him ‘the best possible medical care’.

"It is heartbreaking to hear our skipper Imran Khan going through health issues," Wasim, who has cited Imran as the biggest influence on his career, said on X, formerly Twitter. "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."

Shortly after, Waqar Younis published a message with similar demands.

"Putting politics aside, our national hero, who gave us our greatest glory on the sporting field and built a cancer hospital that helped so many, including my own mother, is suffering a health emergency and requires urgent treatment. I humbly request that the relevant authorities ensure he gets the appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Get well soon, skipper."

Besides the two fast bowlers, former players Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, and Ramiz Raja also showed their support for Khan.

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