Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has spoken out over the reported treatment of jailed former Pakistan captain Imran Khan, calling it “inhumane” and saying no person should be treated that way.Reports cited in the story claim Khan’s health has worsened in jail, with only 15% vision remaining in his right eye.
Shastri backs Imran on humanitarian grounds
Speaking to Republic World, Shastri said he was shocked by Khan’s situation and believed cricketers around the world would share his concerns.“I’m not a politician. But just to see the way he’s being treated today is shocking. You know, no one treats a human being like that. On humanitarian grounds, I don’t think he deserves what he’s getting. So I don’t speak just for myself. I think there’ll be a lot of cricketers around the globe who will be echoing the same sentiments,” said Shastri.He also wished Khan good health and praised his achievements as a cricketer and captain, particularly his ability to guide young players.“I just hope he’s well and his health is good. Because what he gave to the game was something special. And my memories of him are just being an outstanding leader. You know, just a leader of men. The ability to motivate youngsters and then take them through. You said he came close at the age of 40, captain of the side, and he won the World Cup with a pretty young team,” he added.
‘He doesn’t deserve it’
Shastri said Khan, who has been in jail since 2023, is one of Pakistan’s most recognisable figures worldwide and should receive better treatment.“Hopefully. Hope he comes out and is treated better. He’s been there for a long time. You could be out somewhere else, in the same position, because I don’t understand the politics. But to sit in a cell there, he doesn’t deserve it because he’s the most recognised Pakistani face globally. Whether you like it or not, that’s my view,” said Shastri.He also remembered Khan as a great all-rounder and leader, saying the India-Pakistan rivalry was built on mutual respect.“This man you’re seeing there with me was an unbelievable cricketer. I mean, a great cricketer is an understatement. The rivalry was out of respect.”