We can’t help but feel for Oxbridge. The global higher education market is so insanely competitive these days that no institution can rest on its laurels – or ivy-covered walls. Some unis flaunt their histories like a vintage wine collection, while others boast state-of-the-art campuses and lab facilities. With Oxbridge, its litany of alumni can also be trotted out as window-dressing. But Imran Khan, an Oxford blue from Keble College? A bit of barrel bottom-scraping, no?

We have nothing against the Great Khan, certainly one of cricket’s greatest. But let’s just say his career path has been quite the reverse swing since his salad days. For one of Britain‘s still-premier unis, to turn to a bandoblast from the past like Khan as an influencer is Ox-moronic. The former Pakistani PM has reportedly applied to run in the election on October 28 to become Oxford’s next chancellor, replacing former Hong Kong’s British governor Chris Patten. Oxford has relaxed its rules for Khan, allowing nominations and voting to be carried out online. Although a non-executive role, the chancellor chairs the committee appointing the vice-chancellor and is involved in fundraising, advocacy and oversight. How Khan, not the epitome of political straight batting, will handle his duties if elected is anyone’s guess. But, then, Oxford does have an archaic ring to it these days.