Renowned cricket umpire Aleem Dar has announced his retirement after the 2024-25 domestic season, marking the end of a remarkable career spanning nearly 25 years.

“While I will continue to officiate throughout this season, it will be my last,” he said in a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board on Friday.

“That said, I remain committed to mentoring and supporting the next generation of match officials and I will always be available to offer guidance to those pursuing a career in this noble profession.”

Dar, 56, is celebrated as one of the most respected figures in cricket officiating and has received the prestigious David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year three times, from 2009 to 2011.

Before his umpiring career, Dar played in 17 first-class and 18 List-A matches between 1986 and 1998. He made his debut as a first-class umpire during the 1998-99 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.

While expressing his appreciation for nearly 25 years in umpiring, he said: “Umpiring has been my life, and I’ve been privileged to officiate iconic matches with some of the greatest players of this generation. I have always aimed to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and have cherished working alongside top match officials.”

From 2003 to 2023, he was part of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, earning acclaim for his “player management skills, deep understanding of the game, calm presence, and sound decision-making skills.”

Dar, currently a member of the PCB’s Elite Panel, is one of four Pakistani umpires on the ICC’s International Panel, allowing him to officiate in One Day Internationals and T20 Internationals.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dar has officiated in an impressive 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, 72 T20Is, 5 WT20Is, along with 181 first-class matches and 282 List-A matches.

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Dar is known for his “professionalism and respectful demeanor, earning him admiration” from players and fans alike around the globe.

Dar acknowledged that every journey must eventually conclude, stating that he was ready to dedicate himself to social and charitable endeavours, particularly a hospital project and other initiatives that are dear to him.

Feeling fulfilled with his accomplishments in umpiring, he believes it’s time to step back and allow new umpires to emerge. “I hope they will have opportunities to leave their mark on cricket and represent Pakistan with pride,” he added.