Saleema Imtiaz makes history as Pakistan’s first nominated female ICC umpire

LAHORE: Saleema Imtiaz, a trailblazing Pakistani umpire, has made history by becoming the first woman from the country to be selected for the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires.

This prestigious appointment enables her to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC Women’s events, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Saleema’s journey began in 2008 with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Women’s Umpires Panel, and she has since officiated in numerous high-profile events under the Asian Cricket Council.

Saleema’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing influence of women in cricket. She hopes her success will inspire aspiring female cricketers and umpires in Pakistan, paving the way for more women to make their mark in the sport.

In addition, with her daughter, Kainat Imtiaz, already making waves as a Pakistan women’s international player, Saleema is now focused on representing Pakistan at the international level as an umpire.

The new female umpire aims to perform to the best of her abilities and build her reputation as a reliable and respected match official.

Saleema’s first assignment as part of the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires will be the Pakistan-South Africa women’s T20I series in Multan, starting on Monday.

Moreover, she will be accompanied by fellow officials Faisal Aafreedi, Nasir Hussain, Humairah Farah, and Muhammad Javed Malik. As she embarks on this new chapter, Saleema is filled with excitement and determination, ready to make her mark on the international cricket scene.