Aleem Dar, one of cricket’s most respected umpires, will retire at the end of Pakistan’s 2024-25 domestic season, concluding a remarkable career spanning nearly 25 years. Dar, 56, stepped down from the ICC’s Elite Panel in March 2023 but continued to officiate ODIs and T20Is as part of the International Panel. His last international match could be during Pakistan’s ODI tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa in February 2025. The PSL 2025, scheduled for May, might also offer a high-profile farewell opportunity.
At his peak, Dar was regarded as the best umpire globally, winning the ICC’s Umpire of the Year award three consecutive times between 2009 and 2011. He became the first Pakistani to join the ICC’s Elite Panel in 2002, and his distinguished career includes standing in four World Cup finals and officiating a record 145 Tests and 222 ODIs.
Reflecting on his career, Dar said, “Umpiring has been my life for nearly 25 years, and I’ve had the honour of officiating iconic matches. I’ve always aimed to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship.”
As Dar gradually reduced his on-field duties, he focused on his charity work. The Aleem Dar Foundation, which he founded, runs a free ambulance service, a blood bank, and provides transfusions for thalassemia patients. He plans to dedicate more time to these initiatives, saying, “All great journeys must end, and now I want to fully focus on my social and charity work.”
Dar also expressed his desire to mentor the next generation of match officials after his retirement.
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