Pakistani umpire Aleem Dar has announced his retirement, effective after the ongoing Champions One Day Cup 2024.
Although Dar officially retired from international umpiring in March 2023, he continued to officiate domestic and international matches within Pakistan. However, this season will mark the end of his on-field career as he shifts focus toward a noble cause his thalassemia hospital.
Aleem Dar, inducted into the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2004, holds the world record for 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 fraternity.
Dar’s career has been nothing short of groundbreaking. Known for his calm demeanor and unflinching decision-making under pressure, he 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 officiating in major finals, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011, the ICC Champions Trophy in 2009, and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finals in 2010 and 2012.
Aleem Dar’s achievements extend beyond the field as he became the first Pakistani umpire to be inducted into the ICC Elite Panel in 2004 and was named the world’s best umpire for three consecutive years from 2009 to 2011.
As Aleem Dar retires from professional umpiring, he will shift his focus toward his thalassemia hospital, a noble cause he has been supporting.
