Aleem Dar to Retire After 25 Years of Exceptional Umpiring Service

Aleem Dar, one of the most respected and admired cricket umpires worldwide, has announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2024-25 domestic season. This marks the end of a remarkable umpiring career that has spanned nearly 25 years, making him a legendary figure in the world of cricket officiating.

A Career of Excellence

Aleem Dar’s career is a testament to professionalism, fairness, and dedication. The 56-year-old umpire has been a staple of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) umpiring panels, officiating some of the most iconic matches in the game’s history.

Dar’s journey began not only as an umpire but also as a player. Between 1986 and 1998, he played 17 first-class matches and 18 List-A matches before making his first-class umpiring debut during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. It was in 2003, though, that his international umpiring career truly took off when he was appointed to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.

A Record-Breaking Career

Since then, Aleem Dar has officiated in a record-breaking number of matches across formats. To date, his numbers include:

• 145 Test Matches
• 231 One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
• 72 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
• 181 First-Class Matches
• 282 List-A Matches

His achievements go beyond mere statistics. Dar is a three-time winner of the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year, an award he won consecutively from 2009 to 2011. His calm demeanor, exceptional decision-making abilities, and deep understanding of the game made him a beloved figure among players and fans alike.

The Gentleman of the Field

Widely regarded for his gentlemanly conduct, Dar’s player management skills and understanding of the playing conditions set him apart as a unique umpire. His calm, composed nature on the field, combined with outstanding decision-making abilities, earned him the respect of the cricketing community worldwide.

Throughout his 20-year stint on the ICC Elite Panel, Dar maintained the highest standards of officiating, ensuring fairness and transparency in every match he umpired. His contributions to the game go far beyond just being an umpire, as he became a symbol of sportsmanship and integrity.

Retirement and Future Endeavors

Reflecting on his illustrious career, 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.”

He added, “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.” Dar’s retirement will allow him to dedicate more time to his hospital project and other charitable initiatives, which he has always been passionate about.

Though Dar will continue officiating throughout the 2024-25 domestic season, he made it clear that this will be his final year on the field. However, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of umpires, stating that he will always be available to offer guidance and support to those pursuing a career in cricket officiating.

A Lasting Legacy

Aleem Dar leaves behind a legacy that few umpires can match. His professionalism, calm demeanor, and impeccable decision-making have set the gold standard for cricket umpiring. As one of the most recognized and respected figures in the game, his retirement marks the end of an era.

In his own words, Dar expressed his hope that the emerging generation of umpires will have the same opportunities he did. “It is my hope that they too will have the chance to make their mark on the great game of cricket and represent Pakistan with pride,” he said.

While the cricketing world will miss Dar’s presence on the field, his impact on the game will continue to be felt for years to come. His mentorship and guidance for young umpires will ensure that his legacy lives on in the next generation of match officials.

Conclusion

Aleem Dar’s retirement brings to a close one of the most remarkable umpiring careers in cricket history. His contributions to the game, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on cricket, and his legacy will continue to inspire umpires for generations to come. As he shifts his focus to charitable endeavors, Dar leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship that few can match.

FAQs

1. What is Aleem Dar’s most significant achievement as an umpire?
   Aleem Dar is a three-time winner of the David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year (2009-2011), and he holds the record for officiating in 145 Test matches.
2. How long did Aleem Dar serve as an umpire?
   Aleem Dar has been an umpire for nearly 25 years, starting his international umpiring career in 2003.
3. Will Aleem Dar continue to be involved in cricket after his retirement?
   Yes, Dar has expressed his commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation of match officials.
4. What are Aleem Dar’s future plans?
   After retiring, Aleem Dar plans to focus on his social and charity work, particularly his hospital project.
5. How has Aleem Dar influenced the next generation of umpires?
   Through his professionalism, integrity, and calm demeanor, Aleem Dar has set a high standard for future umpires. He also plans to mentor and guide young match officials.