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Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir faced backlash for referring to a player as being from “Azad Kashmir” during live commentary of the Women’s World Cup 2025 match between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Sana Mir (Img: Internet)
Colombo: After sparking controversy with her "Azad Kashmir" comment during live commentary during the ongoing Women's ODI World Cup 2025, former Pakistan captain Sana Mir issued a clarification on social media after the politically sensitive comment was widely criticized.
While commentating on Pakistan's match against Bangladesh in Colombo on Thursday, Mir referred to batsman Natalia Pervez as being from "Kashmir" and then corrected herself to "Azad Kashmir." The mistake quickly went viral on social media, leading to accusations of politicizing the broadcast.
In response, Mir clarified her intentions on social media and expressed regret that the matter had been blown out of proportion. She explained that her comment was intended to highlight Pervez's challenging journey from a specific region of Pakistan.
Mir wrote in a social media post, "My comment about a Pakistani player's hometown was solely intended to highlight the challenges they faced and their incredible journey due to coming from a specific region of Pakistan. This is part of the story we tell as commentators about where players come from."
It's unfortunate how things are being blown out of proportion and people in sports are being subjected to unnecessary pressure. It is sad that this requires an explanation at public level.
My comment about a Pakistan player's hometown was only meant to highlight the challenges… pic.twitter.com/G722fLj17C
— Sana Mir ثناء میر (@mir_sana05) October 2, 2025
Mir stressed that there was no political motive behind his words and urged others not to politicize his commentary.
she added, "I did the same for two other players from other regions today. Please do not politicize this. As a commentator on the World Feed, our job is to focus on the game, the teams, and the players, and highlight their inspiring stories of courage and perseverance. I have no ill will or intention to hurt anyone's feelings."
She also posted a screenshot of the research source he used, which he later updated.
The ICC (International Cricket Council) strictly prohibits political statements or sarcastic remarks in its tournaments. Sana Mir's comments are considered a violation of these rules.
Many cricket fans and experts say that the game should be kept away from politics and that action should be taken against Sana Mir. Some have even said that she should be banned from commentating for life.
