In the cricketing community, former Pakistan captain Sana Mir working as one of the commentators of the Women’s ODI World Cup produced the loudest racket when she addressed a player’s origin as “Azad Kashmir.” Her slip or deliberate word has brought so much fury into social media that the issue has started more hot debates on free speech, political sensitivity and the boundaries of sports and geopolitics.
This is one thing you can’t say on a global stage. Sana Mir has to go for this. There is nothing called Azaad Kashmir. #PakvsBan
— Faiz Fazel (@theFaizFazel) October 2, 2025
Who is Sana Mir?
Sana Mir is one of the best female cricketers in Pakistan and she was born on January 5, 1986, and made her international debut in 2005 within a fantastic 15-year career, she became a symbol of excellence for women’s cricket. She is known as an off-spin bowler and knowledgeable round the pitch where she brings to much of the current generation of players looking to break into the international side.
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Sana Mir Career
During her glittering career Sana Mir played 226 international matches and led her nation in 137 of those games. She became the first Pakistani woman to achieve the 100 WODI wickets milestone becoming the holder of 151 ODI and 89 T20I wickets, adding runs and match-turning spells along the way. In her captaincy of Pakistan, she secured two Asian Games gold medals (2010, 2014), achieved pride on the world stage and saw several teammates rise in ICC rankings. In 2025, she was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame and becoming the first Pakistani woman to receive this honor.
Sana Mir on “Azaad Kashmir” Scandal
During the encounter of Pakistan and Bangladesh, Mir had made an initial reference to the player’s place of origin as Kashmir, which had later changed to “Azad Kashmir.” Viewers caught that snappy moment which went on to spark a shrill reaction from critics stating the term is politically loaded for any international sports commentary. Demands for apologizing or disciplinary actions have risen from ICC, BCCI or other cricket authorities and the case has shown how regional terms fuel larger geopolitical debate.
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The BCCI had provided directives to India’s women’s team to observe a no handshake etiquette before facing each other in the Women’s World Cup-this is merely a reflection of the stand taken by the men’s team. Cricket has historically remained in the crosshairs between the nations and is again being pulled into a political theater beyond the pitch.
When Sana Mir became Pakistan’s Captain?
Sana Mir became the captain in 2009 when she was a very tender 23. She continued to guide Pakistan over many years, leading the team in World Cups, tournaments in regional areas and growing periods. Her leadership brought progressive visibility and respect for the women’s side of Pakistan cricket. Even after stepping down, her shadow remained strong and in subsequent years she briefly came into play in T20 leagues, offering mentorship and experience to the players.
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Disclaimer: This article contains opinions and statements that may be sensitive to some readers. All views expressed are based on public reporting and analysis.
