Former Pakistan women’s captain Sana Mir found herself at the center of controversy during the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 after a slip of tongue on live commentary sparked debate on social media. While calling Pakistan’s match against Bangladesh in Colombo, Mir referred to batter Natalia Pervaiz as being from “Kashmir” before quickly correcting it to “Azad Kashmir.” The remark immediately went viral, with many accusing her of politicising the broadcast.
Responding to the backlash, Mir issued a clarification on social media, expressing regret that her words had been taken out of context. She explained that her intention was never political, but simply to shed light on Pervaiz’s inspiring cricketing journey from a challenging region in Pakistan.
“My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only meant to highlight the challenges she faced coming from a certain region in Pakistan and her incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling we do as commentators about where players come from,” Sana Mir wrote in her statement.
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She further stressed that there was “no political motive” behind her words and urged fans not to misinterpret her commentary.
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
“I did the same today for two other players from different regions. Please don’t politicise it. As commentators on the World Feed, our role is to focus on sport, players, and their journeys of grit and perseverance. There is no malice in my heart or intention to hurt sentiments,” she added.
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To back her explanation, Sana Mir also shared a screenshot of the research source she had used during the broadcast, noting that the information has since been updated.
