Pakistan Football League (PFL) has announced a cash prize of 1 million pkr and a key position in the league for footballer Muhammad Riaz, whose matches received attention after he was forced to sell candy after the dissolution of his department team.
Riaz, a former K-electric player, was unemployed after his club dissolved due to the controversial ban on departmental sports imposed by the previous government. Without financial support, the 29-year-old turned to sell Jalebis In his hometown, Hangu, to make ends meet.
His situation emerged after a video of him appeared online, which led to an invitation to the Prime Minister House.
After the viral video, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Riaz invited to the Prime Minister’s house to a meeting. During the meeting, the Prime Minister awarded him a check of 2.5 million PEK and announced a job for the footballer.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur also provided him with PKR 1 million in financial assistance.
PFL President Farhan Junjo, who recognized Riaz’s difficulties, not only announced PKR 1 million award, but also assured him of a key role in PFL, a league determined to revive football in Pakistan.
“Muhammad Riaz is a good example of the many talented football players in Pakistan who have been forced to leave the sport due to lack of platforms and financial support,” Junjo said. “We are obliged to ensure that such a talent does not go unnoticed. Riaz will not only be financially supported, but will also play an active role in PFL’s efforts to develop the game in Pakistan. “
PFL also promised to provide international training opportunities to Riaz and other hopeful footballers, ensuring that Pakistan’s football talent gets the recognition and support it deserves.
Riaz, an Asian game hero, expressed his gratitude and said, “I am grateful for PFL for giving me the opportunity to return to football. I will work with PFL to make sure no other player is neglected. “
His history has shed light on the battles facing Pakistani athletes, with many social media users pointing out that such a talent would be highly appreciated and well compensated in other countries.
Despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives to restore departmental sports, the ban under Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaf (PTI) continues to affect countless athletes, leaving them without financial security or career stability.
