Sports are not merely games—they are mirrors of society, reflecting its tensions, hopes, and conflicts. Whether through the symbolism of a raised fist, the soft power of global tournaments, or the controversy over national policies, politics and sports remain deeply entangled. Understanding this relationship helps us appreciate sports not only as entertainment but also as a vital arena for cultural and political expression.
An ethnic Pashtun, Khan is a graduate of the University of Oxford. He didn’t immediately enter politics after retiring from cricket; instead, he spent a few years as a philanthropist. Khan founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in 1996, which marked his formal entry into the turbulent political landscape of his country. Khan toiled hard and despite PTI’s struggles at the polls, Khan carefully cultivated his image as an anti-corruption crusader. He became a member of Pakistan’s National Assembly when his party won one seat in the 2002 elections.
