By Wasif Ali Khan
TWA
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Pakistan’s widely regarded as one of the world’s most respected and admired cricket umpires Aleem Dar, will retire at the end of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s 2024-25 season, concluding a career that has spanned nearly a quarter of a century.
A true gentleman both on and off the field, Aleem is also a three-time winner of the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year (2009-2011).
The 56-year-old Aleem also enjoyed a playing career of 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998, before he made his first-class umpiring debut during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. From 2003 to 2023, he served on the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, where he earned a reputation for his player management skills, understanding of the playing conditions, calm demeanor and outstanding decision-making.
He is currently part of the PCB’s Elite Panel and remains one of four Pakistani umpires on the ICC’s International Panel, making him eligible to officiate in ODIs and T20Is.
Aleem Dar has officiated a remarkable 145 Test matches, 231 One-Day Internationals, 72 T20 Internationals, 5 Women’s T20 Internationals, 181 first-class games, and 282 List-A matches, setting numerous records. However, his influence on the game goes far beyond these figures, as his professionalism and respectful approach have earned him admiration and affection globally.
Speaking about his retirement decision, Aleem Dar said, “For nearly 25 years, umpiring has been my passion, and I’ve had the honor of being part of some of the most memorable matches featuring the best players of this era. It’s been a privilege that I will always cherish.”
