In a moment of pride for Pakistan Cricket, three Pakistani umpires have been appointed to officiate in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the United States and West Indies. Among the selected umpires are ICC elite panel umpire Ahsan Raza, along with Asif Yaqoob and Rashid Riaz, marking a significant milestone for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its developmental endeavors.
This selection reflects the PCB’s forward-looking policies aimed at nurturing emerging talent. Ahsan Raza, Asif Yaqoob, and Rashid Riaz were identified and elevated to elite levels early in their careers, allowing them to officiate in first-class matches. Within a span of five to six years, they progressed to the ICC umpires panel, underscoring the success of the PCB’s strategic emphasis on umpiring development.
Critical factors such as age, education, and physical fitness play pivotal roles in the selection process at this level, as highlighted by the ICC. The significance of education, especially for TV umpiring and effective communication during international matches, is duly acknowledged. This focus on education and fitness ensures that umpires meet the stringent standards set by the ICC.
This achievement follows a historical precedent established during the tenure of former PCB chairman General (R) Tauqir Zia, who nominated Aleem Dar and the late Asad Rauf to the ICC panel at a young age, ultimately leading to their elevation to the ICC elite umpires level.
Under the guidance of current PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB remains steadfast in its commitment to grooming young, educated umpires within the domestic circuit. This strategic outlook aims to elevate the umpiring department to unprecedented levels of excellence, guaranteeing that Pakistan continues to contribute top-tier officials to the global cricketing landscape.
