Yesterday, the global community was taken by surprise as Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik announced his third marriage to Pakistani actress Sana Javed. Sharing official pictures from the nikah ceremony on his social media handle, Shoaib confirmed the news.

Rumors of a separation between Shoaib Malik and his second wife, Sania Mirza, had circulated for months, but the couple had not addressed the speculations. However, on January 20, 2024, hours after Shoaib confirmed his wedding, Sania Mirza's father, Imran Mirza, revealed that his daughter had chosen 'khula' from the cricketer.

According to PTI, Imran Mirza clarified, “It was a ‘khula'. I do not wish to comment beyond this.” A report from The Pakistan Daily claimed that none of Shoaib Malik's family members attended the third wedding, and Malik's sisters were reportedly unhappy about the union due to concerns over his divorce with Sania Mirza. The report suggested that Sania was tired of Malik's extramarital affairs.

Today (Jan 21), Anam Mirza, Sania Mirza's sister, posted an official statement on her Instagram confirming the divorce on behalf of Sania Mirza and their family. The statement reads, “Sania has always kept her personal life away from the public eyes. However, today the need has arisen for her to share that Shoaib and she have been divorced for a few months now. She wishes Shoaib well for his new journey ahead!”

‘Khula’ is a right granted to Muslim women, empowering them to seek divorce. Initiated by the wife, the process includes a formal divorce request, citing valid reasons like incompatibility, abuse, or neglect. The woman may also return the 'Mehr' or a financial settlement as part of the agreement for ending the marriage.

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A post shared by Shoaib Malik (@realshoaibmalik)

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A post shared by Anam Mirza (@anammirzaaa)