The Pakistan umpire Aleem Dar is set to retire from professional umpiring after the ongoing domestic season in Pakistan after serving for 25 years making his debut in the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.
Aleem Dar one of the celebrated cricket umpires globally, is set to retire by the conclusion of Pakistan Cricket’s 2024-25 season, marking the end of an illustrious career.
Aleem is a three-time recipient of the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year between 2009 and 2011.
Aged 56, Aleem has a notable playing career, featuring in 17 FC and 18 List A matches between 1986 and 1998. His umpiring career was during 1998-99.
He established himself as a key figure on the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires from 2003-2023. His reputation for effective player management, a deep understanding of game conditions and exceptional decision-making have set him apart in the sport.
“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,” Dar said in a PCB statement.
“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.”
One of the world’s most respected umpires and three-time winner of David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year, Aleem Dar will retire at the end of the PCB’s 2024-25 season, concluding a glorious career ✨
More details ➡️ https://t.co/fqlpI7yp2g pic.twitter.com/vaePoSRvoa
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 27, 2024
“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,” Dar added.
Aleem Dar holds the distinction of becoming the first Pakistan umpire to be a part of the elite panel. He officiated in the finals of the 2010 and 2012 edition editions of the T20 World Cup.
