Brian Lara Urges Proper Medical Care for Imran Khan

Key Takeaways

Former West Indies cricket captain Brian Lara calls for independent medical care for Imran Khan.
Lara expresses concern over Khan's treatment and access to medical care while in prison.
Khan has been in prison since 2023 in connection with multiple legal cases.

Former West Indies cricket captain Brian Lara has called for proper and independent medical care for Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan. Lara made his appeal in a message posted on his official Instagram account, expressing his deep respect for Khan and his concerns over the current situation.

Lara, who crossed paths with Khan only a handful of times on the cricket field, said his respect for the former prime minister was instant and lasting. He emphasized that Khan, who was once a beacon of hope, pride, and inspiration for Pakistan, deserved to be treated with compassion and dignity.

The statement comes amid ongoing concerns among Khan’s supporters about his health and access to medical treatment while he remains incarcerated. Khan, a celebrated all-rounder and captain in the history of cricket, led Pakistan to its first and only Cricket World Cup triumph in 1992.

Khan has been in prison since 2023, facing multiple legal cases. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has repeatedly called for his release. Lara’s appeal is framed as a humanitarian concern, not a political one. He stressed, “This isn’t politics. It’s basic humanity for a legend of our game.”

The message adds Lara’s voice to those from the international cricket fraternity who have expressed concern about Khan. Last month, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered the immediate transfer of Imran to Shifa International Hospital for a comprehensive medical examination and treatment. The government later challenged the Supreme Court’s order, terming it discriminatory.

However, the Supreme Court registrar’s office returned the review petition after raising procedural objections. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar later stated that Khan was found to be in good health following a medical examination conducted at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

Lara’s call for proper medical care for Khan highlights the ongoing debate around his health and treatment while in prison. The situation remains a subject of concern for many, including former cricket captains and international figures in the sport.

Imran Khan and I only crossed paths on the field a handful of times, but the respect I have for him was instant and lasting.
Brian Lara, Former West Indies cricket captain

I am struggling to understand how someone who was once a beacon of hope, pride and inspiration for his country, at the height of his sporting career, could now find himself in a situation where he is not being cared for and treated with the compassion and dignity he deserves.
Brian Lara, Former West Indies cricket captain