Aleem Dar will retire at the end of the 2024-25 domestic season

At his peak, Dar was widely regarded as the world’s best umpire, winning the ICC David Shepherd Umpire of the Year award three years in a row from 2009 to 2011. from Pakistan to break through, he was appointed to the ICC’s special team when it was formed in 2002. He then built a successful and respected career, appearing in four World Cup finals and a record-breaking 145 Tests and 222 ODIs.

“Umpiring has been my life for almost 25 years and I have enjoyed the privilege of officiating some of the most historic matches involving the greatest players of this generation,” said Dar in a statement. “Throughout my career, I have strived to raise the standard of the sport, and it has been a privilege to work alongside the world’s best sports officials.”

In recent years, as he has reduced his role on the field, Dar has established a charity – the Aleem Dar Foundation – which provides a free ambulance service and a blood bank and transfusion for thalassemia patients. This is where he intends to spend more time.

“However, all good journeys must eventually come to an end, and the time has come for me to focus fully on my social work and philanthropy. My hospital project and other initiatives are very close to my heart and require my complete dedication and attention.”

Dar played 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998 as a leg-spinner, before making his senior debut during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. He said he hopes to continue working as a mentor and guide for the next generation of game managers.