Imran Khan row: PCB warns Pak players against speaking about jailed former captain

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cautioned players participating in the current Test series against England to avoid discussing the imprisonment and health of former captain Imran Khan, as reported by PTI. The situation gained prominence during the second Test in London following Sky Sports airing an interview with Imran Khan's sons, Suleman and Kasim Khan, during a mid-game break.

The PCB deemed the interview politically charged, but chose not to escalate the matter, mindful of Pakistan's diplomatic ties with the United Kingdom.

Pakistan's head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed was queried about the interview's content during a media briefing. He stated that the players were preoccupied with their lunch and were unaware of the controversy. Subsequently, the PCB instructed players to refrain from commenting on Imran Khan's detention. The directive follows heightened global attention on the former captain, who has been incarcerated since 2023 after being convicted on corruption charges, claims he contests.

Imran Khan's incarceration has sparked widespread concern over his well-being, with several prominent figures, including former teammates, calling for his release and better medical care. Moin Khan, a member of Imran's 1992 World Cup-winning team, recently expressed deep worry about his former captain's health. He also encouraged fellow cricketers to champion Imran's cause, emphasizing the captain's crucial role in Pakistan's cricket history.