'State tried to airbrush Imran Khan out': Atherton on appeal for ex-Pakistan PM
In a compelling show of solidarity, Michael Atherton, the former England cricket captain, along with 21 fellow international cricketers, has launched an appeal for the medical treatment of ex-Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned. Atherton raised alarms about the efforts to diminish Khan's status, while Kapil Dev advocated for the essential rights of prisoners, urging…
Former England cricket captain Michael Atherton has joined 21 other former international players in urging Pakistani authorities to ensure that former Prime Minister and cricket legend Imran Khan receives proper medical care while imprisoned. Imran has been in custody since 2023, following his conviction on corruption charges that he denies.
Reports earlier this year suggested that his eyesight had deteriorated, with one eye reportedly lost, leading to calls for better medical attention. Last week, the group of former cricketers wrote to authorities again after Imran was reportedly taken to a hospital following a court order, but allegedly received inadequate medical examination.
Atherton, speaking on a Sky Sports cricket podcast, emphasized the appeal was not only about medical treatment but also about countering efforts to "airbrush" Imran from public life in the age of social media. Other signatories included former Indian cricket captains Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, and Dilip Vengsarkar, highlighting the concerns at a time of heightened political tensions between the two nations.
Kapil Dev explained that he supported his former teammate and friend despite the political climate in Pakistan, emphasizing the appeal was to ensure basic care and dignity for a prisoner. Imran Khan guided Pakistan to their only One Day International World Cup victory in 1992 and was known for his exceptional all-round skills before entering politics and serving as Prime Minister.
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