Pakistan’s veteran umpire, Aleem Dar, is set to retire following Pakistan’s 2024-25 domestic season, marking the close of a distinguished, nearly quarter-century career.
Dar, renowned for his poise and excellent judgment, has thrice received the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year between 2009 and 2011. Before his umpiring debut at the first-class level during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, he played 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches from 1986 to 1998.
His tenure on the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires from 2003 to 2023 highlighted his player management skills and deep understanding of the game. He is a member of the PCB’s Elite Panel and one of four Pakistani umpires on the ICC’s International Panel, eligible to officiate in ODIs and T20Is.
Dar holds the record for officiating in 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, 72 T20Is, 5 WT20Is, 181 first-class matches, and 282 List-A matches. In a PCB release, he reflected on his career: “Umpiring has been my life for nearly 25 years, and I have cherished the privilege of officiating some of the most iconic matches involving the greatest players of this generation. Throughout my career, I’ve strived to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, and it has been an honour to work alongside some of the finest match officials in the world.
“However, all great journeys must eventually come to an end, and the time has come for me to focus fully on my social and charity work. My hospital project and other initiatives are very close to my heart and require my full devotion and attention.
“Having achieved almost everything that I had aspired to in umpiring with the unwavering support of my peers and colleagues, I also feel it’s the right moment to step aside and allow emerging umpires to shine. It is my hope that they, too, will have the same opportunities to make their mark on the great game of cricket and represent Pakistan with pride.
“While I will continue to officiate throughout this season, it will be my last. That said, I remain committed to mentoring and supporting the next generation of match officials and I will always be available to offer guidance to those pursuing a career in this noble profession.”ast while dedicating himself to mentoring and supporting the next generation of match officials.
