Aleem Dar, a well-known umpire from Pakistan, has announced his retirement from the professional ranks. At the conclusion of the 2024–25 Pakistan Cricket Board season, the 56-year-old will announce his retirement, capping a career spanning almost 25 years.
Between 1986 and 1998, Dar participated in 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches as a player. He was unique, nevertheless, in his capacity as an umpire. Following his outstanding debut as an umpire in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in 1998–1999, Dar was selected in 2004 to join the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dar has officiated in 448 international matches, comprising 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, and 72 T20Is. In addition, he has competed in the ICC Champions Trophy (2009), two ICC Men’s T20 World Cups (2010 and 2012), and two ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup finals (2007 and 2011).
Working with some of the best match officials in the world has been an honour: Aleem Dar
Dar also won the coveted David Shepherd Trophy after being awarded the ICC Umpire of the Year for three years in a row, from 2009 to 2011. In retrospect, Dar underlined that he wishes to devote all of his time to charitable and social causes.
“I have dedicated almost twenty-five years of my life to umpiring, and I have been honoured to officiate some of the most memorable games featuring the best players of this era. Working with some of the best match officials in the world has been an honour, and I have always endeavoured to maintain the greatest standards of sportsmanship.
But all wonderful things must come to an end, and this is the right moment for me to devote all of my attention to my charitable and humanitarian activity. In a statement, he added, “My hospital project and other initiatives are very close to my heart and require my full devotion and attention.”
Dar mentioned that he also gives advice to potential officials and umpires in the future. He’s prepared to impart his wisdom to the next generation.
“I also believe it’s the proper time to move aside and give over the spotlight to up-and-coming umpires, having accomplished nearly everything I had hoped to in umpiring with the unflinching support of my peers and colleagues. My wish is that they would also be afforded the same opportunities to leave their imprint on the magnificent game of cricket and proudly represent Pakistan.
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This season will be my final one, even though I will still officiate. Having said that, I’m still dedicated to helping and encouraging the upcoming generation of match officials, and I’ll always be here to provide advice to anyone interested in a career in this admirable field.
India
