For the majority of Imran’s current supporters, his succeses on the cricket field are not the only things that draw them to him.
Had he been just a cricketer (even with similar accomplishments) who had gone straight into politics, he would not command the same level of admiration that he does.
In the eyes of his supporters, his work as a philanthropist, the hospitals, the university, the foundation, define his character and prove his credibility as an incorruptible, sincere leader. It is this aspect of his life that the people (even his adversaries) acknowledge and admire the most.
So it is baffling when the international media’s account of his life almost always skips over his social work, and focuses only on his cricket and his playboy persona. It either shows ignorance or betrays a deliberate portrayal of him as a shallow character.