Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir continued her role on the commentary panel for the high-profile Women’s World Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, despite facing widespread criticism for a previous on-air remark referencing “Azad Kashmir.” India are taking on Pakistan in their second league match of the ICC tournament. The controversy originated during Pakistan’s opener against Bangladesh last Thursday. While discussing batter Natalia Pervaiz’s background, Mir said: “…captaining a very young side. Yes, they have won the qualifiers, but a lot of these players are new. Natalia, who comes from Kashmir, Azad Kashmir, plays in Lahore a lot cricket. She has to come to Lahore to play most of her cricket there.” Her comment drew heavy criticism online, with many social media users urging the ICC to remove her from the panel, accusing her of politicising the broadcast. In response, Mir clarified the matter, stressing that her statement had been exaggerated and misinterpreted. Taking to X, she wrote: “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 she faced from a certain region in Pakistan and her incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling we do as commentators, showing where players come from. I did the same for two other players from other regions. Please don’t politicise it. On the World Feed, our focus is the sport, teams, and players, highlighting grit and perseverance. There is no malice in my heart or intention to hurt sentiments.” She also shared a screenshot showing the sources she used to research players, noting that the information had since been updated. Despite the scrutiny, Mir remained part of the commentary panel for Pakistan’s second match against India. While she did not appear on Star Sports, India’s official Women’s World Cup broadcaster, a screenshot from the Pakistan broadcast circulated online, showing her alongside former India captain Mithali Raj, discussing the game immediately after the toss. In the match, Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first. India made one change to their lineup, bringing in Renuka Thakur for Amanjot.
