Sana Mir Clarifies ‘Azad Kashmir’ Comment Amid Backlash

Former Pakistan cricketer and commentator Sana Mir has clarified her controversial use of the term “Azad Kashmir” while referring to Pakistani cricketer Natalia Pervaiz during the Women's World Cup 2025 match against Bangladesh.

During the broadcast, Mir mentioned, “Natalia, who comes from Kashmir, Azad Kashmir, plays in Lahore, a lot of cricket. She has to come to Lahore to play most of her cricket there.” This sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing her of deliberately using the term to provoke controversy. Indians corrected Mir, emphasizing that Pervaiz is from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Late on Thursday, Mir clarified on social media that her comments were harmless and not political, explaining that she primarily relies on ESPNcricinfo for player research. She said her aim was to highlight the challenges faced by players from different regions and that her remarks were part of storytelling for the sport.

Mir added, “It is sad that this requires an explanation at the public level… Please don’t politicise it. As a commentator, we are meant to focus on the sport, teams, and players, highlighting inspiring stories of grit and perseverance.”

The controversy comes amid strained India-Pakistan cricket relations following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, which led to India’s men’s cricket team refusing customary handshakes and trophy exchanges with Pakistan at the Asia Cup 2025. The Indian women’s team is expected to follow similar protocols in their upcoming World Cup clash with Pakistan on October 5.

Critics argue that Mir’s background—as the daughter of a former Pakistan army colonel—suggests deliberate intent, while she maintains it was merely factual commentary based on her research sources.