Former Umpire Aleem Dar Joins Pakistan Selection Committee in Major Revamp

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Pakistan cricket finds itself in the middle of yet another upheaval. With every series, it seems the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is ready to press the reset button, whether it involves changing the captain, overhauling the coaching staff, or making sweeping changes to the team setup. This constant reshuffling has left fans and experts alike questioning the stability of Pakistan cricket.

The latest shake-up came shortly after a crushing defeat in the Multan Test, where Pakistan suffered a loss by an innings and 47 runs. The PCB responded swiftly, announcing the inclusion of four new voting members to the men’s national selection committee. Among them is former umpire Aleem Dar, a name synonymous with excellence in cricket officiating.

PCB Revamps Selection Committee

As Pakistan’s poor form continues, the PCB had little choice but to make significant changes. Their recent home Test series has been particularly disastrous, with the team unable to secure a win in 11 consecutive matches. With mounting pressure, the decision to revamp the selection committee seemed inevitable.

The new members include Aleem Dar, former fast bowler Aqib Javed, ex-batsman Azhar Ali, and cricket analyst Hassan Cheema. Their appointments came just an hour after Pakistan’s humiliating defeat in the Multan Test. 

The PCB’s official statement read, “Aleem Dar, Aqib Javed, Azhar Ali, and Hassan Cheema have been added as voting members of the national men’s selection committee.”

Aleem Dar’s Iconic Journey

Aleem Dar’s inclusion in the selection panel brings with it a wealth of cricket knowledge. While he might be more renowned for his umpiring than his playing days, Dar’s contributions to the game are nothing short of legendary.

Over a 24-year umpiring career, Dar stood in 132 Test matches, 236 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 69 T20 Internationals (T20Is), making him one of the most experienced umpires in cricket history. His composed demeanour on the field and ability to make tough decisions earned him three ICC Umpire of the Year awards.

No Chief Selector Yet

Despite these changes, the role of the chief selector remains vacant. Wahab Riaz, the last to hold the position, was removed after Pakistan’s disappointing performances against Australia and New Zealand earlier this year. His tenure ended with the team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup, prompting his ouster from the selection committee. Mohammad Yousuf, another former cricketer, also resigned from the committee just a few weeks ago, citing personal reasons.

The recent addition of Dar, Javed, Ali, and Cheema marks a new chapter for Pakistan cricket, but without a chief selector, it remains to be seen how effective this committee will be in reversing the team’s fortunes. 

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