Saleema Imtiaz becomes Pakistan’s first female umpire on ICC International Development Panel

Saleema Imtiaz has made history as the first Pakistani woman to be nominated to the ICC International Development Panel of umpires. This prestigious nomination allows her to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC women’s events. Her first assignment will be during the upcoming T20I series between Pakistan and South Africa, starting Monday in Multan.

Reflecting on her achievement, Imtiaz expressed her gratitude and dedication, saying, “The journey has been filled with hard work and personal sacrifices, but now, standing at the cusp of this new chapter, it all feels worth it. This isn’t just a win for me, it’s a win for every aspiring female cricketer and umpire in Pakistan.”

Imtiaz, the mother of Pakistani cricketer Kainat Imtiaz, has already officiated in 22 T20Is, 16 as an on-field umpire and six as a TV umpire. Her latest appearance was in the Women’s Asia Cup final between India and Sri Lanka in Dambulla.

Starting her umpiring career in 2008, Imtiaz has steadily risen through the ranks, officiating in key tournaments like the 2022 Asia Cup and the 2023 ACC Emerging Women’s Cup. Now, her goal is to continue performing at the highest level and build her reputation as a respected official.

In other developments, Ahmed Shahab, Khalid Mehmood Sr., Rana Muhammad Arshad, and Qaiser Waheed have been promoted to the PCB Elite Panel of Umpires, with several others being elevated to the PCB Supplementary Panel.