Pakistani Commentator Sparks Controversy by Calling Region Azad Kashmir During Women’s World Cup Match Cricket News The Times of India
Controversy Erupts at Women’s World Cup 2025 Over Comment on Azad Kashmir
In a surprising turn of events at the Women’s World Cup 2025, former Pakistan captain Sana Mir ignited a major controversy with her on-air remarks regarding “Azad Kashmir.” This incident, occurring during Pakistan’s opening match against Bangladesh, has sparked significant backlash across social media platforms, capturing the attention of cricket enthusiasts and authorities alike.
Sana Mir’s Remarks Ignite Online Backlash
During the match commentary, Mir mentioned: “… 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 of cricket. She has to come to Lahore to play most of her cricket there.” This statement quickly went viral, leading to a flurry of criticism from Indian fans.
Calls for Action Against Commentary Panel
Fans reacted promptly, tagging both the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in their tweets, demanding immediate action. Many called for Mir’s removal from the commentary panel, arguing that her remarks politicized the game. The ICC has a firm policy against mixing politics with sports, which makes this incident particularly sensitive and controversial.
Impact on Pakistan’s Performance During the Match
The controversy overshadowed Pakistan’s on-field performance, where the team faced challenges against Bangladesh’s well-executed bowling strategy. Pakistan struggled to build momentum and ultimately crumbled to a disappointing total of 129 all out in just 38.3 overs on a pitch favorable for batting.
Bangladesh’s Bowling Prowess Shines
Bangladesh’s young pacer Marufa Akter made a striking impact, claiming two wickets in her opening spell, dismissing both opener Omaima Sohail and experienced player Sidra Amin for first-ball ducks. Following this shocking start, slow left-arm spinner Nahida Akter further dismantled Pakistan’s hopes by removing Muneeba Ali (17) and Rameen Shamim (23) shortly after the powerplay, maintaining relentless pressure on the batting lineup.
Match Summary: Pakistan Struggles Against Bangladesh
| Team | Total Runs | Innings Overs | Wickets Lost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 129 | 38.3 | All out |
| Bangladesh | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Throughout the innings, Pakistan’s run rate rarely surpassed four runs per over. The team crossed the 100-run mark only in the 30th over, managing just 14 boundaries across the entire innings. The batting lineup’s inability to adapt to Bangladesh’s effective rotation of bowlers contributed to their dismal performance.
This incident not only highlights the tension surrounding political statements in sports but also showcases the high stakes of international cricket on the global stage.
