The 29-year-old has shared his story in a video that has been circulating on social media.

Riaz, who is originally from Hangu and a former player for K-Electric, expressed his frustration at the lack of support for athletes in Pakistan and the government s failure to fulfil promises regarding the revival of departmental sports.

In the video, the athlete criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government for banning departmental sports, saying that the decision had damaged the country’s sports infrastructure and left athletes without essential support.

He said, "For years, I waited for the promised revival of departmental sports. But with no income, I had no choice but to cook jalebis on a street corner to feed my family instead of practising football."

This video highlights the struggles faced by athletes due to the lack of support and delays in reviving departmental sports.

The video sparked outrage and various social media users have called for urgent action to support national sports and prevent more talented athletes from facing similar situation.