Imran Khan: The Cricketer, The Celebrity, The Politician

Christopher Sandford

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In Circulation

The definitive biography of Imran Khan, the former Pakistan cricket captain and all-rounder – the Oxbridge graduate and vociferous campaigner; the devout Muslim whose kaleidoscopic social life flooded the gossip columns; the man who raised $60 million for cancer research and who is now one of the most important political figures in Pakistan.

On one thing, Imran Khan’s friends and enemies agree: it all began with the leopard print satin trousers. In November 1974, the Cricketer International published an article about the new elite group of young talented players, ‘into concepts like fashion and pop music’, and bent on challenging cricket’s eternal stereotypes. Of the five featured stars on the cover, a superbly hirsute 21-year-old wearing a tight black shirt and gaudy trousers, with a facial expression of supreme self-confidence, stood out.

Imran Khan has always been a controversial figure, a man who gives rise to hot debate on account of his strong conviction and hard line views. From his achievements on the cricket field as the Pakistan captain who captured the World Cup and the game’s best all-rounder in history, through to his racy social life – the practising Muslim boogieing on the dancefloor of Annabel’s, ‘an astonishing lovemaker’, according to one overnight partner, praised by Diana Princess of Wales, close friend to his then wife Jemima Goldsmith, as a ‘devoted husband’ – the Imran story is full of colour and contradictions.

Acclaimed biographer Christopher Sandford has approached a richly varied cast list of Imran associates past and present – from Geoff Boycott, Javed Miandad, Mike Brearley, David Gower and John Major through to Nelson Mandela and close acquaintances male and female such as Eric Clapton, Mick Jagger, John Major, Keith Richards, sources close to the late Princess of Wales and Pakistan’s General Musharraf. Imran Khan himself has agreed to be interviewed for the book and given Sandford exclusive access to his inner sanctum.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Cricket Career: The book delves into Imran Khan's illustrious career as a cricketer, highlighting his achievements as a skilled all-rounder and his pivotal role in leading the Pakistan cricket team to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup.

  2. Charismatic Leadership: Sandford explores Imran Khan's charismatic leadership style, which earned him admiration both on and off the cricket field, and his ability to inspire and unite people around a common cause.

  3. Political Ambitions: The biography traces Imran Khan's transition from cricket to politics, including his founding of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and his aspirations to bring about political change in Pakistan.

  4. Challenges and Setbacks: The book discusses the challenges and setbacks faced by Imran Khan in his political career, including electoral defeats, criticism from opponents, and struggles to build a viable political coalition.

  5. Vision for Pakistan: Sandford explores Imran Khan's vision for Pakistan, including his advocacy for social justice, anti-corruption measures, and reform initiatives in areas such as healthcare, education, and governance.

  6. Controversies: The biography addresses various controversies surrounding Imran Khan, including allegations of political opportunism, criticism of his leadership style, and scrutiny of his personal life and relationships.

  7. International Profile: The book examines Imran Khan's international profile and his role as a global statesman, including his efforts to promote diplomacy and peace-building initiatives in the region.

  8. Personal Life: Sandford provides insights into Imran Khan's personal life, including his upbringing, education, and relationships, as well as his journey of spiritual and personal growth.

  9. Popularity and Support Base: The biography explores Imran Khan's popularity among certain segments of the Pakistani population, particularly among young people and those disillusioned with traditional political parties.

  10. Legacy and Impact: Finally, the book reflects on Imran Khan's legacy and impact on Pakistani politics and society, examining his contributions to the country's political landscape and his enduring influence as a public figure.

Language English
ISBN-13 9780007353378
No of pages 400
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Harper Collins
Published Date 15 Oct 2009

About Author

Author : Christopher Sandford

1 Books

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