Speaking about batsman Natalia Parwaiz during the Pakistan-Bengladesh match, former Pakistan captain Sana Mir created a big controversy after mentioning “Azad Kashmir”. After criticism, the cricketer-turn-commentator issued an explanation on the matter, called it misunderstanding.
Indian fans accused him of politicizing cricket, as a clip of his comment went viral on social media. His comment was after the final of the Asia Cup 2025 between India and Pakistan, where both on the field and outside were already more tension. Fans demanded action, with some ICC and BCCI tagging.
Things are being blown out of proportion – Sana Mir
In response, Sana Mir said that her words were misunderstood and never intended to humiliate him. He described the controversy as unnecessary, stating that it was unfortunate to face such inappropriate pressure for sports figures.
“It is unfortunate how things are being blown out of proportion and people are being subjected to unnecessary pressure in the game. It is sad that this requires a clarification at the public level,” he wrote on X (was previously known as Twitter).
It is unfortunate how things are being flown out of proportion and people in the game are being subjected to unnecessary pressure. It is sad that this requires clarification at the public level.
My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only to highlight the challenges … pic.twitter.com/g722flj17c
– Sana Mir ثناء میر (@mir_sana05) October 2, 2025
Natalia comes from Perwaiz Bandla, a city located in Pakistan -occupied Kashmir (POK). The 29 -year -old cricketer has represented Pakistan at the international level, adding attention to his roots in this politically sensitive field.
This story is part of the story of telling – Sana Mir
Sana Mir said that instead of making any political statements, he shared the background of Natalia Parvas. Mir urged people not to politicize their comments, saying that there was no intention of annoying anyone.
“My comment about the hometown of a Pakistan player was only to highlight the challenges coming from a certain area in Pakistan and his incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling that we do as commentators.
He said, “Please do not politicize it. As a commentary on the world feed, we are to focus on sports, teams and players, which expose the inspirational stories of grit and perseverance. I have no malicious or any intention to hurt emotions,” he said.
I am also attaching screen shot – Sana Mir
The former Pakistan captain also shared a screenshot from the ESPNCRICINFO website. However, the site later updated its database to list its database as “Pakistan-Planned Kashmir”.
“I am also attaching the screenshot where I research most of my players, whether it is from Pakistan or any other country. I realize that they have changed it so far, but this is what I was referring to,” he concluded.
Amidst the controversy, the Pakistan women’s team started their World Cup campaign with a defeat against Bangladesh. He was excluded for only 129 in 38.3 overs. Only Ramin Shamim (23) and Captain Fatima Sana (22) managed to reach double figures for Pakistan.
Bangladesh chased the target comfortably with 113 balls. Rubya Haider scored 54 runs and directed the team to win a seven -wicket win.
Pakistan has been designed to face India on Sunday, October 5 in Colombo. India has set a World Cup record against Pakistan.
Also read: Asia Cup Trophy handed over to ECB as BCCI pushed Mohsin Naqvi for impeachment