Pakistan began their journey in the ODI Women's World Cup 2025 as they took on Bangladesh in their opener in Colombo.
Pakistan did not have the ideal start as they were bowled out for just 129 runs, which Bangladesh are likely to chase down comfortably.
However, there was a controversial moment in the match while Pakistan were batting as the commentator on live television uttered the words "Azad Kashmir".
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WATCH: Commentator sparks controversy with "Azad Kashmir" comment
Natalia Pervaiz was on strike as Pakistan were struggling at 94/6 in 28 overs. As Natalia was preparing to take her strike, the commentator on air, who was identified as former Pakistani cricketer Sana Mir, controversially said that, "Natalia hails from Azad Kashmir".
The comment naturally sparked controversy due to the political sensitivity around the Kashmir area between India and Pakistan.
Politics in cricket 🇵🇰🚨
— Globally Pop (@GloballyPop) October 2, 2025
A Pakistani commentator calls a player "from Azad Kashmir" on air during the ICC Womens World Cup 2025 match.
Natalia Pervaiz - Player
Sana Mir - Commentator
Video 📷 #INDvsWI #Pakistan #Bangladesh pic.twitter.com/TOBn1Ce8io
READ: Where to buy the tickets for India vs Pakistan Women's ODI World Cup match?
Indian fans slam Sana Mir for "Azad Kashmir" comment
Indian fans did not take the comment kindly as they lashed out at Sana Mir for making such a statement live on air and some even demanded action against the commentator.
Player ‘from Azad Kashmir’ is this kind of commentary allowed?
— Lala (@FabulasGuy) October 2, 2025
And then they say keep politics away from sports. pic.twitter.com/1HSHjRWMZG
Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir has stirred a hornet’s nest by bringing up the ‘ Kashmir’ issue during live commentary today.
— Rahul Rawat (@rawatrahul9) October 2, 2025
She referred to a Pakistan player as hailing from ‘Azad Kashmir.’
India is the host for this Women’s World Cup and the ICC is expected to act against…
Player ‘from Azad Kashmir’ is this kind of commentary allowed?
— IndiaWarMonitor (@IndiaWarMonitor) October 2, 2025
And then they say keep politics away from sports.
pic.twitter.com/RBEfAyQVBK
MORE: Why is IND vs PAK women's World Cup match being held in Colombo?