Celebrated Pakistani umpire Aleem Dar was honored with a guard of honor as he officiated his final Test match as a member of the ICC Elite Panel of umpires in the game between Bangladesh and Ireland in Mirpur.
Bangladesh won on the final day with a seven-wicket win, successfully chasing a 138-run target.
The ICC announced Dar’s exit from the elite panel on March 16 after a distinguished 19-year career. Having made his international debut in 2000, Dar quickly gained recognition for his sound decisions in matches, earning respect from players and fans alike.
In 2002, he was appointed to the ICC International Panel of Umpires and officiated at the 2003 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in South Africa. Dar became the first Pakistani appointed to the Elite Panel in 2004.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dar officiated a total of 438 international matches. ICC CEO Geoff Allardice praised his remarkable contribution to international cricket, noting that Dar’s consistent elite performances earned him widespread respect. Allardice expressed his best wishes for Dar’s future and anticipated his continued involvement in cricket.
Dar was voted ICC Umpire of the Year for three consecutive years, from 2009 to 2011. Reflecting on his journey as an umpire, Dar said he enjoyed every moment and achieved more than he ever dreamed of when he began his career. Although still interested in continuing as an international umpire, Dar felt it was the right time to step away from the Elite Panel to provide an opportunity for someone from the International Panel. He encouraged umpires worldwide to work hard, maintain discipline, and continually learn.
