Legendary Umpire Aleem Dar to Retire After Champions One-Day Cup
In a heartfelt ending to an amazing career, legendary Pakistani umpire Aleem Dar is about to retire from professional umpiring after the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup 2024. officially stepped back from umpiring in March 2023, but Dar kept officiating in domestic & international matches in Pakistan. season wraps up his incredible journey on the field as he turns his attention to a noble cause his thalassemia hospital.
A Remarkable Career
When commentator Tariq Saeed announced it during a Champions One-Day Cup match, it marked the end of an era in cricket. Dar joined the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2004 & holds the world record for being on the field for 448 international matches! That’s made up of 145 Tests, 231 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 72 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). His two-decade career has made him one of the most respected figures in global cricket.
Known for staying calm & making smart calls under pressure, Dar has officiated many high-stakes tournaments. This includes five ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups, seven ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, and five ICC Champions Trophy events. He played a big part in some iconic cricket finals too, like the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup finals in 2007 & 2011, plus the ICC Champions Trophy in 2009 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finals in 2010 & 2012.
Groundbreaking Achievements
Dar didn’t just shine on the field; his mark on the sport goes beyond that. He was the first Pakistani umpire to join the ICC Elite Panel back in 2004. Plus, he got recognized as the world’s best umpire three years straight from 2009 to 2011! His steady fight for fairness & integrity made him beloved not just in Pakistan but everywhere cricket is played.
Players & coaches respect his steadiness during tough matches. Many athletes have pointed out how fair-minded he is, often trusting his calls during crucial game moments.
Transitioning to a Noble Cause
As he steps away from officiating, it doesn’t mean he’s leaving cricket behind completely; he’s just shifting his focus toward helping others. He wants to dedicate more time to his thalassemia hospital, which means a lot to him. This change shows how committed he is to making a positive difference beyond cricket, showing that his legacy will live on through his charitable work.
A Legacy to Remember
Aleem Dar’s retirement signals an important chapter closing in cricket history. His work has changed the game significantly, encouraging a new wave of umpires and players. While he gets ready for this new chapter of life, fans and players will remember him not only for his great stats but also for the honesty and professionalism he brought along.
In a recent statement, Dar felt thankful for all the support throughout his career and said, “It has been an honor to serve the game I love. I hope to keep contributing to cricket in new ways and inspire others to follow their passions.”
As the Champions One-Day Cup
wraps up, cricket fans around the world will say goodbye to Aleem Dar a true legend of the game. His legacy as one of cricket’s finest umpires will last forever. Plus, his future work in healthcare shows how much he cares about making a difference. Aleem Dar’s journey stands as proof of dedication, excellence, and cricket’s enduring spirit, leaving a lasting mark on this beloved sport.