Veteran umpire Aleem Dar announces retirement after distinguished career

ISLAMABAD: In a fitting end to an extraordinary career, legendary Pakistani umpire Aleem Dar is set to retire from professional umpiring after the ongoing Champions ODI Cup 2024.

Although Dar officially retired from international umpiring in March 2023, he continued to umpire in domestic and international matches.

However, this season will mark the end of his on-field career as he focuses on a greater cause – his thalassemia hospital.

The announcement, made by commentator Tariq Saeed during a Champions ODI match, marks the end of an illustrious journey.

Aleem Dar, who was inducted into the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2004, holds the world record of officiating 448 international matches, including 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, and 72 T20Is. His contributions spanned two decades, making him a respected figure in the global cricket community.

Dar’s career has been nothing short of groundbreaking. Known for his calm demeanor and unwavering decision-making under pressure, he has officiated in five ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups, seven ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, and five ICC Champions Trophy tournaments.

His legacy includes umpiring major finals, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011, the ICC Champions Trophy in 2009, and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finals in 2010 and 2012.

Dar’s achievements have also extended off the field as he became the first Pakistani umpire to be included in the ICC Elite Panel in 2004 and was named the best umpire in the world for three consecutive years from 2009 to 2011. An indelible mark on the history of cricket.