Ravi Shastri says Imran Khan’s treatment is “shocking” in comments to Republic World
On October 16, 2026, former India head coach Ravi Shastri told Republic World he was speaking up for Imran Khan and described the treatment the former Pakistan captain is receiving as "shocking", saying it was unacceptable on humanitarian grounds.
Cricket has long featured a fierce India-Pakistan rivalry alongside instances of mutual respect, and Imran Khan is cited in the article as a former Pakistan cricketer admired for his all-round skills and leadership. The piece notes Imran led Pakistan to their first ODI World Cup title in 1992 and that Indian cricketers have praised his contribution to the game. Concern about Imran’s health and treatment has grown since he was detained in 2023, prompting public statements from several former players.
Shastri said his intervention was not political and expressed alarm at Imran’s current circumstances, telling Republic World: "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." He framed his remarks as motivated by concern for Imran’s personal welfare rather than by politics.
The former India coach also spoke about Imran’s cricketing standing, offering strong praise for his abilities and leadership. Shastri said: "This man you’re seeing there with me was an unbelievable cricketer. I mean, a great cricketer is an understatement," and referred to Imran as a "leader of men," noting his capacity to guide and inspire teammates.
Reports cited in the article place Imran Khan in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi and say he has suffered health setbacks while in custody. The story states he has reportedly lost much of the vision in his right eye after not receiving proper medical care and that reports allege he does not have access to books in his cell.
When asked whether Imran might be released, Shastri said he hoped for better treatment and possible release, adding: "Hopefully. Hope he comes out and is treated better. He’s been there for a long time." The comment followed his earlier expressions of humanitarian concern.
As a further development, the article reports that 21 former international captains have written to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asking him to ensure better treatment for Imran Khan, and that seven former Australian cricketers have written to their government seeking assistance, steps the piece presents as evidence of growing concern in the cricket community.