Aleem Dar to Retire at End of Domestic Season 2025

APP

Peshawar: Aleem Dar, one of the most respected and admired cricket umpires worldwide, will retire at the conclusion of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s 2024-25 season, marking the end of a career that has spanned nearly 25 years.

Aleem, a three-time winner of the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year (2009-2011), is known for his professionalism and sportsmanship both on and off the field.

The 56-year-old had a brief playing career, featuring in 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998, before transitioning into umpiring. He made his first-class umpiring debut in the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. From 2003 to 2023, Aleem served on the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, earning a reputation for his exceptional player management, knowledge of playing conditions, calm demeanor, and outstanding decision-making.

Aleem is currently a member of the PCB’s Elite Panel and remains one of four Pakistani umpires on the ICC’s International Panel, allowing him to officiate in ODIs and T20Is. Over the course of his career, he has officiated in a record 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, 72 T20Is, 5 Women’s T20Is, 181 first-class matches, and 282 List-A matches.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Aleem Dar said: “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 honor to work alongside some of the finest match officials in the world.”

He further added: “However, all great journeys must eventually come to an end. The time has come for me to focus fully on my social and charity work, including my hospital project, which requires my full attention. I feel it’s the right moment to step aside and allow emerging umpires to shine, just as I had the opportunity to represent Pakistan with pride.”

While Aleem Dar will continue to officiate for the remainder of the season, he has expressed his commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation of match officials and remains available to offer guidance to those pursuing a career in umpiring.