Editorial
Saleema Imtiaz has made history by becoming the first Pakistani woman to be appointed to the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires, as announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday.
This significant nomination grants her the eligibility to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC Women’s Events, signifying a noteworthy milestone in Pakistan’s cricketing history.
Having commenced her umpiring career with the PCB Women’s Umpires Panel in 2008, Saleema boasts a wealth of experience, including officiating in prominent events under the Asian Cricket Council. Notably, she has been involved in officiating the 2022 and 2024 ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup, as well as the 2023 ACC Emerging Women’s Cup in Hong Kong. Her most recent role was as a member of the playing control team for the ACC Women’s Premier Cup 2024 in Kuala Lumpur.
Saleema’s well-deserved rise to the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires solidifies her status as a pioneer in the world of cricket.
Her inaugural on-field assignment in a bilateral series will see her overseeing the Pakistan-South Africa women’s T20I series in Multan, commencing on Monday. She will be joined by Faisal Afreedi from the PCB International Panel of Umpires, with Nasir Hussain as TV umpire, while Humairah Farah will serve as the fourth umpire and Muhammad Javed Malik from the PCB International Panel of Match Referees will be the series’ match referee.
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Saleema Imtiaz’s ascension to the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires not only shatters barriers but also sets an inspiring example for future generations of female cricket professionals. Additionally, Umpire Ahsan Raza has been promoted to the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.
As Saleema prepares to celebrate her 53rd birthday on December 18, 2024, she expressed her elation at joining the ICC International Panel of Development Umpires, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board for the opportunities it has afforded her. She emphasizes that her journey has been characterized by hard work and personal sacrifices, but the achievement makes it all worthwhile.
She considers this not only a personal victory but also a triumph for aspiring female cricketers and umpires in Pakistan. Saleema hopes that her success will inspire numerous women who aspire to leave their mark on the sport. She believes that this moment reflects the expanding influence of women in cricket and the PCB’s dedication to fostering this development, expressing her sincere desire to witness more women follow in her footsteps and embrace the beautiful game.
