Renowned umpire Aleem Dar to retire after Pakistan's 2024-25 domestic season
Former ICC Elite Panel umpire Aleem Dar will retire from all umpiring after the conclusion of Pakistan's 2024-25 domestic season. The 56-year-old has officiated in 145 Tests and 222 ODIs.
One of the most respected match officials in the game, Dar stepped down from the ICC's Elite Panel of umpires in March 2023. However, he remained eligible to stand in ODIs and T20Is. He officiated in a T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand in April this year.
Releasing an official statement over his retirement, Dar reflected on his long journey in the game and said (as quoted by ESPNcricinfo):
"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."
Over the last few years, the much-respected umpire has focussed more on his charity, the Aleem Dar Foundation, which provides free ambulance service and much more for thalassemia patients.
"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," he concluded in his official statement.
Known for his calm demeanor and sharp decision-making, the 56-year-old established a good rapport with players. He won the ICC's David Shepherd trophy for Umpire of the Year award for three consecutive years from 2009 to 2011. Widely regarded as one of the best umpires to have officiated in international cricket, Dar stood in four World Cup finals.
Aleem Dar's record in first-class cricket
As a player, Dar featured in 17 first-class matches. As a middle-order batter and leg-spinner, he scored 270 runs and claimed 11 wickets. The former cricketer from Pakistan also played 18 List A games, scoring 179 runs and picking up 15 scalps.
However, Dar gained the fame and respect of the entire cricketing fraternity through his umpiring. He stood in his first ODI in 2000 and was part of the ICC panel within two years.