Wasim Akram on Imran Khan health
ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain and legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has expressed concern over the health of former Prime Minister and cricket icon Imran Khan, stressing that political differences should not come in the way of ensuring his wellbeing.
Speaking in a detailed interview, Akram said he had not spoken to Imran Khan for around three years but continued to regard him as a friend and mentor from his early cricketing days.
“I miss him a lot,” Akram said, adding that his concerns were rooted in their longstanding personal relationship rather than politics.
The former fast bowler said legal and political matters were separate issues, but there should be no compromise when it comes to Khan’s health.
“Whether he is convicted or in prison, his health must be protected,” Akram said, emphasizing the need for proper medical care and access to the people responsible for his wellbeing.
Akram also referred to concerns raised publicly by Imran Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Qasim, regarding their father’s health and conditions in prison. Their comments during an interview broadcast around the Pakistan-England Lord’s Test generated considerable discussion in Pakistan.
The cricket legend said the conflicting claims surrounding Khan’s health had made it difficult to determine what information could be trusted. He also mentioned reports concerning meetings and telephone calls involving Khan and said the situation remained difficult to assess from outside.
Cricket Community Raises Its Voice
Akram’s comments come amid growing concern from figures within the international cricket community regarding Imran Khan’s circumstances.
A group of former international captains reportedly called for Khan to be provided with appropriate dignity, medical attention and access to his personal doctor and family.
Australia captain Pat Cummins and former West Indies batting great Brian Lara have also been among cricket personalities who have expressed concern, while former Pakistani cricketers including Javed Miandad, Moin Khan and Ramiz Raja have spoken publicly about the situation.
Imran Khan and Wasim Akram share a decades-long cricketing connection. Akram played under Khan during the formative years of his international career and has frequently acknowledged the former captain’s influence on his development as a cricketer.
For Akram, the issue remains personal as much as it is public: regardless of political disagreements or legal proceedings, he believes Imran Khan’s health should remain a priority.