In cricket, umpires play a very crucial role, probably they play the most important role. The image of the game hugely decides on their umpiring decisions.
The error-less umpires are hugely favourite for everyone – for the players and fans. In the long international cricket history, we have seen some legendary umpires who are loved by everyone.
Here we are talking about the top five most loved umpires of all-time:
Aleem Dar
After his playing career (1986/87-1997/98), where he appeared in 17 first-class matches and 18 List A games, former Pakistan domestic cricketer Aleem Dar took up the umpiring role. Since 2004, Dar is a member of the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires – the first Pakistani to be part of the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires.
As an umpire, Dar made his debut in international cricket in 2000, and he is still handling this role very well. Till the date, Dar has officiated in a total of 485 men’s international matches (386 matches as an on-field umpire and 99 matches as a TV umpire) and five Women’s T20I matches (all as an on-field umpire). He also officiated in the big tournaments like ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC World T20, ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy etc. including finals.
Dar is famous to provide many accurate decisions even in the tough moments of the game. He won three successive ICC Umpire of the Year (David Shepherd Trophy) awards from 2009 to 2011.