Pakistan’s Ahsan Raza has been added to the ICC’s Elite Panel of Umpires for 2023-24 after veteran Aleem Dar stepped down.

Apart from Raza, South Africa’s Adrian Holdstock has also been added to the Elite Panel of Umpires.

Holdstock has officiated in five Tests, 42 ODIs, and 48 T20Is. Raza has stood in seven Tests, 41 ODIs, and 48 T20Is.

Aleem Dar is one of the most decorated ICC Umpires from Pakistan as he has officiated 435 men’s international matches. Dar has had a long career as an international umpire. He made his international debut in 2000 and quickly rose through the ranks, with his sound decisions in matches earning him acclaim from the players and fans.

Dar was appointed to the ICC International Panel of Umpires in 2002 and officiated at the 2003 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in South Africa. Dar was voted the ICC Umpire of the Year for three consecutive years between 2009 and 2011.

Pakistan Cricket Board Management Committee Chairman Najam Sethi has congratulated Raza on his promotion to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires and has also thanked Aleem Dar for his services as an elite panelist for nearly two decades.

“It is a moment of great pride and joy for the whole nation that Ahsan Raza has become the third Pakistan umpire to be appointed to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires. I want to congratulate Ahsan on this wonderful achievement and I am sure he will continue to work hard with dedication and passion to enhance the image and profile of this noble profession.

“Ahsan is a great inspiration for many young and upcoming umpires and his elevation demonstrates we have talented umpires in Pakistan who are skilled enough to break into the top category,” he said. “I also want to congratulate Aleem Dar on his successful career as an elite panelist. He was the first Pakistani to become a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires way back in 2004 and since then, he has established himself as one of the most respected and highly-qualified umpires in the business.”

“Throughout his outstanding career, he earned worldwide appreciation and accolades through his work ethics, undivided commitment to the game, good decision-making and excellent man-management skills. He will remain as one of the best and finest to have ever served on the elite panel.”

Ahsan has been a member of the ICC International Panel of Umpires since 2010 and is the first to reach the 50 T20I mark as an umpire. Overall, he has umpired in 72 T20Is, along with seven Tests and 41 ODIs.