Ravi Shastri ‘Shocked’ by Pakistan Government’s Treatment of Imran Khan

Former India cricketer and coach Ravi Shastri has expressed shock over the treatment of former Pakistan prime minister and legendary cricketer Imran Khan, saying that no person deserves to be treated in such a manner on humanitarian grounds.

Imran Khan, Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup-winning captain, entered politics after retiring from cricket and served as the country’s prime minister from 2018 to 2022. He has been imprisoned at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since August 2023 and is serving sentences in several cases, which he and his party have rejected as politically motivated.

Speaking about his memories of Imran, Shastri described him as an exceptional leader who had a remarkable ability to inspire young players and help them move forward.

Shastri also recalled how Imran, approaching the age of 40, led a young Pakistan side to their first World Cup triumph in 1992. He said the former Pakistan captain’s current situation was difficult to understand.

Asked whether he believed Imran could eventually leave prison, Shastri said he hoped the former Pakistan prime minister would be released and treated better.

“I don’t understand politics. But in this situation, you could probably have been somewhere else outside. Sitting in a cell is not what he deserves. Because around the world, he is Pakistan’s most recognisable face. Whether you like him or not, that is my view,” Shastri said.

Allegations that Imran has been mistreated in prison or denied access to his family and lawyers have been rejected by the Pakistani government. Officials have said such claims are not supported by prison and medical records.

Concerns over Imran’s health have also intensified in recent months. In August, 21 former international cricket captains wrote to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging the government to ensure humane treatment and proper medical care for Imran. A similar appeal had been made by 14 former captains in February.

The controversy grew after Imran was taken to a hospital for a medical examination and returned to Adiala Jail within hours. Pakistani officials said doctors had declared him medically fit, while his party and several former cricketers questioned whether the court-directed medical arrangements had been fully followed.

Shastri has now joined those expressing concern over Imran’s situation, stressing that the former Pakistan captain deserves dignity and humane treatment.