While social media consumers continue to clamour that statements against Imran Khan are either fake or outdated, journalist Imran Riaz khan as hit back at the cricketer for not being able to take criticism.

In a new vlog published to his YouTube channel, Khan repeated that Afridi is known for hitting the wrong shot at the wrong time.

While acknowledging Afridi’s hero status, the journalist said that people who are celebrated by the nation should not say something that hurts public sentiments.

“If someone is considered a hero, they should have courage and not be afraid to say the right thing,” Imran Riaz said.

“If you don’t do this, you will bear what will happen to you,” he added.

The controversy began when a graphic on social media claimed that Afridi had called for an example to be made out of people involved in May 9.

Another video of Afridi, originally from 2022, was then reposted on social media where he said that ‘institutions’ should be allowed to give NROs.

Imran Riaz Khan, who is known for his strongly-worded takes, joined the crowd criticising Afridi, adding that the cricketer had never spoken up for Imran Khan and always seemed to chime in to support Shehbaz Sharif.

He had also claimed that Afridi seemed to be eyeing something, and heroes should not stake their good names to get posts in government.

In response, Afridi had tweeted that journalists should check facts before posting about them to differentiate them from trolls. He also attached a screenshot of Imran Riaz’s with the caption.

Afridi also added that he would not have become a cricketer if not for the inspiration he received from Imran Khan.

However, Afridi went on to say that he stood by what he said, without clearly alluding to which statement he was talking about.

“Because of lies and propaganda, my position will neither change nor will it serve Tehreek-e-Insaf or Imran Khan,” he wrote.