Colombo [Sri Lanka]: A video clip of former Pakistan women’s cricket captain Sana Mir’s on-air comments during the ODI World Cup has gone viral, triggering a wave of outrage across social media platforms. The 39-year-old, currently working as a commentator, has come under severe criticism from fans, many of whom have demanded strict disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and ICC Chairman Jay Shah.
Some users even called for Mir to be banned from future commentary assignments, arguing that her remarks crossed a line during a global tournament watched by millions.
Incident during Bangladesh vs Pakistan clash
The controversy erupted during the ODI World Cup encounter at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, where Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets. While on commentary, Mir made a remark about a Pakistan player’s background that many fans interpreted as inappropriate.
The clip was quickly circulated online, sparking debates not only among cricket followers but also within wider sporting circles. This episode follows a string of tense incidents in the cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan, including heated gestures during the Asia Cup 2025.
Fans call for accountability
The backlash was swift. Social media was flooded with posts demanding that the ICC take cognisance of Mir’s comments. Some insisted on an apology, while others urged cricketing bodies to impose bans to “set an example” for maintaining professionalism in global broadcasts.
“This is not acceptable at the commentary box during a World Cup. ICC must intervene,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “If BCCI and ICC remain silent, it will only embolden such behaviour.”
Sana Mir issues clarification
Responding to the furore, Mir released a statement on her social media handles, clarifying that her intention had been misunderstood.
“My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only meant to highlight the challenges she faced of coming from a certain region in Pakistan and her incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling we do as commentators about where players come from,” she wrote.
Mir further explained that she had provided similar context for players from other regions as well. “Please don’t politicise it. As a commentator on the World Feed, we are meant to focus on the sport, teams, and players, highlighting inspiring stories of grit and perseverance. There is no malice in my heart or any intention to hurt sentiments,” she added.
A controversy in a tense backdrop
This incident adds another layer of drama to the already sensitive cricketing atmosphere involving India and Pakistan. The Asia Cup 2025 had seen its share of controversy, with on-field gestures by Pakistan players sparking debates over sportsmanship.
With the ODI World Cup underway, cricket administrators now face calls to tighten oversight of broadcast conduct, while Mir’s clarification may or may not be enough to calm outraged fans.