West Indies fast-bowling legend Michael Holding has criticised the Pakistan government over the continued imprisonment of former PM and cricket captain Imran Khan. Holding backed a recent petition signed by 21 international cricket captains calling for better treatment of the jailed leader.
The former Pakistan all-rounder has been in prison since 2023 after his removal from office following a no-confidence vote in 2022. Concerns over his health, restrictions on family access and the conditions of his imprisonment have added to the international attention surrounding his case.
Michael Holding Recalls Supporting Imran Khan’s Cancer Hospital Campaign
Michael Holding and Imran did not play against each other often in international cricket, but the two developed a strong personal connection away from the game. Holding recalled accompanying the former Pakistan captain in London while he raised funds for his cancer hospital.
“When Imran was going around London looking to garner funds for that cancer hospital, I went around with him, I tried to support him as best as I possibly could, where that was concerned,” Holding told Sports Now.
“So I know the man, and I know exactly what type of person that he is. And it's extremely sad to see the situation now and what is going on with Imran Khan,” the 72-year-old added.
West Indies Legend Backs International Captains’ Letter to Pakistan
Michael Holding also backed the recent appeal from international cricket captains calling for better treatment and medical care for Khan. A group of former international captains has written to Pakistani authorities over concerns about his treatment in prison.
“I am in total support of the captains who wrote that letter. I don't know what effect it will have, but I am in total support of trying to get the man to be treated just like another human being,” Holding said.
“You don't treat human beings that way. People who have committed murder aren't treated that way. So I don't see the reason why this man should be treated that way.”
“I don't know if there's jealousy involved in this, because Imran Khan. I don't think there's a Pakistani who is more well-known around the world than Imran Khan. That is ridiculous, the way the man is being treated,” he added.
Imran Khan’s Sons Raise Concerns Over His Health and Prison Conditions
Concerns over Imran’s health intensified after his sons, Sulaiman and Kasim Khan, spoke to former England captain Michael Atherton during the England-Pakistan Test at Lord’s in August.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) objected to the broadcast and reportedly considered keeping the team off the field after lunch if the interview was aired. Sky Sports eventually broadcast the interview, and Pakistan returned for the second session.
Pakistan’s Supreme Court had also ordered Khan’s transfer to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for a medical examination in August. The court further allowed weekly family visits and phone calls with his sons.
Khan’s family has continued to raise concerns about his health and treatment. Pakistani authorities have disputed allegations of mistreatment and maintained that he has access to appropriate care.
Also read: Imran Khan news: Seven ex-Australia captains seek diplomatic intervention for his medical care
