Saleema Imtiaz has created history by becoming the first woman from Pakistan to officiate at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This achievement marks a major milestone in her career and in Pakistani cricket.
The appointment highlights her growing international profile as a match official. Saleema Imtiaz is being recognized for breaking barriers in a field where Pakistani women have had limited representation.
In September 2024, she also became the first Pakistani female umpire to be selected for the ICC International Development Panel. This selection allowed her to officiate at higher-level international matches and tournaments.
Speaking about her achievement, Saleema Imtiaz said she felt proud to represent Pakistan on the global stage. She described the moment as historic for both herself and the country.
She said it was an honour to stand at the biggest stage in women’s cricket. She also thanked her family and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for supporting her journey.
She added that she hopes her success will encourage more women and girls in Pakistan to join cricket. This includes both playing professionally and becoming match officials.
Saleema Imtiaz was added to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup officiating panel as a replacement for Lauren Agenberg. After her inclusion, she quickly received several match assignments.
Her first role was as fourth umpire during the India vs South Africa match at Old Trafford on June 21. She then made her on-field debut in the New Zealand vs Scotland match in Bristol.
On the same day, she also served as TV umpire in the Sri Lanka vs Ireland match. These assignments showed the confidence of ICC in her abilities.
Later, Saleema Imtiaz officiated on the field during the India vs Bangladesh match at Old Trafford. She is also scheduled to act as TV umpire for the England vs New Zealand match at The Oval. In addition, she will serve as fourth umpire for the Australia vs India match at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
She began her umpiring career in 2008 with the Pakistan Cricket Board women’s panel. Since then, she has officiated in nine Women’s One-Day Internationals and 58 Women’s Twenty20 Internationals.
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Her journey is being seen as an important development for women in Pakistani cricket. It is also viewed as an inspiration for young girls who want to build careers in sports officiating. Saleema Imtiaz continues to be a role model for aspiring female umpires in the country.
