Saleema Imtiaz has become the Pakistan first woman umpire to be selected for the ICC International Development Panel of Umpires. This achievement allows her to officiate in international women’s cricket matches and ICC women’s events. Her first match in this new role will be the T20I series between Pakistan and South Africa, starting on Monday in Multan.
Imtiaz, the mother of Pakistan cricketer Kainat Imtiaz, expressed her pride:
“This is not just a personal victory for me, but for all the aspiring female cricketers and umpires in Pakistan,” she said in a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). “I hope my achievement inspires many women to follow their dreams in cricket. This moment highlights the growing presence of women in the sport and the PCB’s dedication to encouraging this progress.“
Saleema’s Journey and Achievements
Saleema Imtiaz has officiated in 22 T20 International matches, 16 on the field and six as the TV umpire. Her most recent game was the final of the Women’s Asia Cup in Dambulla between Sri Lanka and India, where she served as the on-field umpire. She had also officiated in three other games during the tournament.
Reflecting on her journey, she said:
“Ever since Kainat made her debut for Pakistan in 2010, I’ve dreamed of representing my country at the international level. While I’ve had opportunities with the Asian Cricket Council, officiating at the highest level has always been my goal. Now, I’m fully focused on giving my best in both bilateral and ICC matches and establishing myself as a respected umpire.“
Umpiring Career and PCB Developments
Saleema began her umpiring career in 2008 with the PCB women’s panel. She has also officiated in major tournaments like the 2022 Asia Cup and the 2023 ACC Emerging Women’s Cup in Hong Kong.
In addition to Imtiaz’s promotion, four other umpires—Ahmed Shahab, Khalid Mehmood Sr., Rana Muhammad Arshad, and Qaiser Waheed—have been elevated to the PCB Elite Panel of Umpires from the Supplementary Panel. Qaiser Waheed will take the place of Shozab Raza, who is set to retire on 31st October.
From the development panel, Anser Mahmood, Jamshid Iqbal, Naseer Ahmed, and Zeeshan Arif will be promoted to the supplementary panel, effective 1st November.
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