Following controversial remarks regarding Kashmir during the Women’s ODI World Cup hosted by India, former Pakistani cricketer Sana Mir issued a clarification. Mir, who is providing commentary during the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, made comments about Kashmir during the match between Pakistan and Bangladesh on October 2nd, sparking a controversy. The former captain of the Pakistan women’s cricket team has now clarified her statement in 171 words.
The tensions between India and Pakistan have increased since the operation by the Indian army following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. This tension was also visible on the cricket field. In the recent Asia Cup 2025, the teams of India and Pakistan did not even shake hands, leading to a controversy. Furthermore, the Indian team’s decision to refuse to accept the trophy from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi in the final of the tournament added to the dispute. Now, amidst the Women’s World Cup, Sana Mir made a controversial statement about Kashmir from the commentary box.
During the Women’s World Cup match against Bangladesh, when Natalia Parvez came out to bat for Pakistan, Sana Mir, while commentating, sparked a controversy by referring to her as coming from ‘Azad Kashmir.’ Sana said, “Natalia comes from Kashmir, Azad Kashmir. She has to come to Lahore to play cricket.” As the video clip of Sana Mir’s statement went viral, a controversy erupted, and fans started demanding action from the ICC on social media.
However, Sana Mir has now written 171 words in her X handle to clarify the statement. Although, it does not seem from her clarification that she has any knowledge of what she said. Sana Mir said that it is unfortunate how things are being blown out of proportion and unnecessary pressure is being put on people associated with sports. It is sad that a clarification is required at the public level.
She further wrote that her comment was about the hometown of a Pakistani player, and her only intention was to highlight the challenges she faced because she came from a particular region of Pakistan and how her journey was incredible. This is part of the story we, as commentators, tell about where the players come from.
In her clarification, Sana also wrote that she did the same for two more players from other regions today. She appealed not to politicize it. There is no malice in my heart or any intention to hurt sentiments.
Sana Mir also shared the screenshot from where she had researched about the player. Along with this, she also wrote that she knows that she has changed it by now, but I am talking about this.
