Aleem Dar steps down from ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.

LAHORE -- Pakisatni cricketer and umpire Aleem Sarwar Dar has decided to step down from the International Cricket Council (ICC) Elite Panel of Umpires after 19 years.

'Dar has had a long and celebrated 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,' the ICC said in an official statement on Thursday.

Dar has officiated in 435 men's international matches.

Talking about Dar's expansive career, ICC said: '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 continued his rise as he was appointed as a member of the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires in 2004. He was the first Pakistani to be appointed to the Elite Panel'.

Lauding Dar's contributions, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: "Aleem's contribution to international cricket and to the ICC has been truly remarkable. Consistently elite performances over such a long period saw him enjoy enormous respect across all involved in international cricket. I wish...