Aleem Dar, the legendary Pakistani umpire, is set to bid farewell to his illustrious career at the end of Pakistan’s current domestic season. Dar, 56, has been a pillar of the cricketing world for nearly a quarter of a century, earning widespread recognition as one of the finest umpires of all time.
Dar’s journey began as a legspinner, playing 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998. However, it was in umpiring that he found his true calling. He made his first-class umpiring debut during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and quickly rose through the ranks.
In 2002, Dar became the first Pakistani umpire to be appointed to the ICC’s elite panel. He went on to establish himself as a respected and highly skilled official, standing in four World Cup finals and a record-breaking 145 Tests and 222 ODIs.
Dar’s reputation for fairness and accuracy earned him the ICC’s David Shepherd Trophy for Umpire of the Year three years in a row from 2009 to 2011. He was known for his calm demeanor, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to upholding the spirit of the game.
In recent years, Dar has gradually reduced his on-field role, focusing on mentoring and guiding the next generation of match officials. He has also established the Aleem Dar Foundation, a charity that provides a free ambulance service, blood bank, and transfusion for thalassemia patients.
As Dar prepares to retire, he reflects on his remarkable career with gratitude and pride. “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 said.
Dar’s retirement marks the end of an era in cricket umpiring. He has set a high standard of professionalism and integrity, inspiring countless aspiring umpires around the world. His legacy will continue to shape the game for years to come.
