Sana Mir Faces Backlash for Controversial Comments During BAN vs PAK Women’s World Cup Match
Former Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team captain Sana Mir, who led the side for nearly a decade, found herself in the spotlight for controversial remarks during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match between Bangladesh and Pakistan. The game took place in Colombo on Thursday, October 3.
While commentating, Mir referred to Pakistan batter Natalia Pervaiz as being from “Azad Kashmir” while discussing her cricketing background. The term “Azad Kashmir,” commonly used by Pakistanis to refer to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), drew significant attention and criticism from viewers.
On air, Mir said: “Natalia, who comes from Kashmir, Azad Kashmir, plays a lot of cricket in Lahore. She has to come to Lahore to play most of her cricket there.”
The comments sparked outrage among fans, who quickly took to social media, tagging the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), demanding strict action against the former Pakistan captain.
Sana Mir Clarifies Comment on Pakistan Player’s Hometown, Apologizes for Misunderstanding
Amid criticism over her recent remark, former Pakistan captain Sana Mir offered an apology, emphasizing that her comment was never meant to offend anyone. Taking to Twitter, she stated:
“It’s unfortunate that my words are being blown out of proportion, and that athletes in sports are facing unnecessary pressure. I’m saddened that this has required a public explanation. My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only intended to highlight the challenges she faced coming from a certain region and to celebrate her incredible journey.
As commentators, it’s part of our storytelling to share where players come from. I did this for two other players from different regions as well. Please don’t politicize it. On the World Feed, our focus is meant to be on the sport, teams, and players—highlighting stories of grit and perseverance. There is no malice in my heart, nor any intention to hurt sentiments.
I’m also sharing a screenshot showing where I research most of my players, whether from Pakistan or elsewhere. Although the details may have since changed, this is what I was referring to.”
Who is Sana Mir?
Sana Mir is regarded as a legend of Pakistan Women’s Cricket. Serving as captain for nearly a decade, she led the team with distinction and set high standards on and off the field.
Mir became the first Pakistani woman to take 100 wickets in T20 internationals and remains one of the leading wicket-takers in women’s ODIs for Pakistan. She represented the country in multiple ICC Women’s World Cups and T20 World Cups. Following her retirement, she transitioned into a career in cricket commentary.