ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan women’s captain Sana Mir has countered Indian media’s negative propaganda by presenting undeniable evidence about cricketer Natalia Pervaiz’s origins, quoting one of their favourite websites.
During a live commentary stint on Thursday, Sana Mir referred to Natalia as “hailing from an Azad Kashmir village in Pakistan.” This factual reference sparked outrage among sections of the Indian media, who attempted to portray Sana’s remark as controversial. However, their propaganda backfired when Sana shared a screenshot from a popular Indian website itself, which clearly mentioned Natalia’s birthplace as “Azad Kashmir.”
The twist came when the website hurriedly edited its content once the contradiction was exposed. “I only stated what was already publicly available. I said nothing new,” Sana Mir told The News from Sri Lanka. “The fact remains that Natalia’s profile clearly listed Azad Kashmir as her birthplace on a leading cricket platform. I simply quoted it.”
Analysts believe the Indian media overreaction stems from simmering frustration, not only in cricket but also due to recent regional setbacks. Sana’s calm and fact-based rebuttal has been widely praised in Pakistan and among cricketing circles worldwide as an example of dignity in the face of unnecessary controversy.
Interestingly, this is not the first time Indian media outlets have attempted to politicize sports commentary. Similar attempts in the past have been aimed at shifting focus from on-field controversy, including India’s captain’s reluctance to shake hands and accept the Asia Cup trophy from ACC chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Indian media’s apparent frustration was the result of losing six fighters during the May 9 war against Pakistan. But Sana’s poise and reliance on documented facts turned the tables, leaving critics red-faced.
Sana said: “It’s unfortunate how things are being blown out of proportion and people in sports are being subjected to unnecessary pressure. It is sad that this requires an explanation at the public level.
“My comment about a Pakistan player’s hometown was only meant to highlight the challenges she faced coming from a certain region in Pakistan and her incredible journey. It is part of the storytelling we do as commentators as to where the players come from. I did that today for two other players coming from other regions, too. 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.”