Legendary Umpire Aleem Dar Bids Emotional Farewell to ICC Elite Panel After 13-Year Career

On April 7, 2023, cricket umpiring legend Aleem Dar announced his retirement from the International Cricket Council (ICC) Elite Panel after serving as an umpire for 13 years. The news came as a shock to the cricketing community, who had grown accustomed to seeing the skilled and respected official officiating in some of the biggest matches in the sport.

End of an Era!

Dar’s decision to retire marks the end of an era in cricket officiating, as he leaves behind a legacy in the sport. Over the course of his illustrious career, Dar officiated in 391 international matches, including 45 Tests, 202 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 144 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). He also served as an umpire in the ICC World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy.

Commendable Career

Throughout his career, Dar was known for his unflappable demeanor, sharp eye, and unwavering commitment to the game. He earned the respect of players and fans alike for his fairness and impartiality, and his ability to make tough decisions with clarity and precision.

Dar’s retirement from the ICC Elite Panel has left a void in cricket umpiring that will be hard to fill. He was one of the most experienced and respected umpires in the world, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.

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Grand Farewell Ceremony

In recognition of his services to cricket, the ICC organized a grand farewell ceremony for Dar in Lahore, Pakistan, on April 7th. The event was attended by Dar’s family, friends, former colleagues, and cricketing legends from around the world.

During the ceremony, Dar was praised for his contributions to cricket and presented with a memento as a token of appreciation. The 53-year-old umpire expressed his gratitude to the ICC and the cricketing community for their support and encouragement over the years, saying that he was proud to have served the sport he loved.

Aleem Dar’s Remarks

“I am honored and humbled to have been a part of the ICC Elite Panel for the past 13 years. It has been a privilege to work with some of the best umpires in the world and to officiate in some of the biggest matches in the sport,” Dar said.

“I would like to thank the ICC, my colleagues, the players, and the fans for their support and encouragement throughout my career. Cricket is a beautiful sport, and I am proud to have been a part of it.”

Dar’s retirement has left many cricket fans and players feeling emotional and nostalgic. Some have taken to social media to pay tribute to the umpire and express their gratitude for his contributions to the sport.

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman tweeted, “Congratulations Aleem Dar on a fantastic career. You have been a great ambassador for the game, and your contribution to cricket will be remembered for a long time.”

Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee also expressed his admiration for Dar, tweeting, “Aleem Dar has been one of the most consistent umpires in the world for many years. He has earned the respect of players and fans alike for his professionalism and dedication to the game. Congratulations on a wonderful career, Aleem.”

Dar’s retirement from the ICC Elite Panel is a bittersweet moment for cricket fans around the world. While his absence will be felt keenly, his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come. Dar will undoubtedly be missed, but his legacy in cricket umpiring will live on.