‘Azad Kashmir’ remark lands ex-Pakistan captain Sana Mir in hot water

Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir finds herself in hot water for remark during commentary. (Photo: ICC)

Former Pakistan women's cricket captain Sana Mir has found herself in the midst of a big controversy after she made certain comments on air during the ICC Women's ODI World Cup match between Pakistan and Bangladesh on Thursday (October 2).

While commentating live during a World Cup match, Mir called Pakistan women team player Natalia Pervaiz from "Azad Kashmiri" rather than "Pakistan-occupied Kashmiri." Her statement caught more attention when she corrected herself by saying "Azad Kashmir" after saying the cricketer is from Kashmir.

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This is one thing you can't say on a global stage. Sana Mir has to go for this. There is nothing called Azaad Kashmir. #PakvsBan

pic.twitter.com/8sBp6lbMCZ

— Faiz Fazel (@theFaizFazel) October 2, 2025

The video of her comments went viral on social media, and fans are outraged. The 39-year-old has been severely criticized on social media, with some users calling for strict disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and ICC Chairman Jay Shah, even demanding a ban from commentary work.

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The row erupted during the ODI World Cup encounter at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where Bangladesh had beaten Pakistan by 7 wickets.

This incident just adds more drama to the latest controversy between India and Pakistan. During the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan's men cricket members also sparked debate and drama with their gestures during their game against India.

Mir later addressed the controversy with a social media post clarifying that she was only telling the background story of the cricketer.

“My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only meant to highlight the challenges she faced of coming from a certain region in Pakistan and her incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling we do as commentators as where the players come from," Mir wrote in a socia media post.

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  (@mir_sana05) October 2, 2025

“I did that today for two other players coming from other regions, too. Please don’t politicise it. As a commentator on the World Feed, we are meant to focus on the sport, teams, and players, highlighting inspiring stories of grit and perseverance. There is no malice in my heart or any intention to hurt sentiments," she added.