Aleem Dar to retire after 2024-25 domestic season

Aleem Dar, one of the most respected cricket’s umpires, has announced that he will retire at the end of the 2024-25 domestic season, concluding the incredible chapter of his life comprising of nearly 25-year remarkable career. Aleem has won the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year three times (2009-2011) and is well-known for his calm nature and flawless decision-making,

The 56-year-old Aleem also had a playing career of 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998, before he made his first-class umpiring debut during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. In 2003 Aleem became a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, where he served till 2023, earning global admiration for his professionalism and fairness.

In his career Aleem has officiated 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, 72 T20Is, 5 WT20Is, 181 first-class matches, and 282 List-A matches.

Currently on the PCB’s Elite Panel and one of four Pakistani umpires on the ICC International Panel, Aleem remains eligible to officiate in ODIs and T20Is.

“Umpiring has been my life for nearly 25 years, and I’ve had the privilege of officiating some of the most iconic matches. However, now is the time to shift my energy to social and charity work, particularly my hospital project, which is extremely close to my heart.” Aleem stated.

Aleem expressed his hope that the next generation of umpires will have similar opportunity to succeed and emphasised the value of mentoring future umpires.

Though he will officiate this season, his retirement signifies the end of a remarkable career, even if he is dedicated to supporting emerging officials.