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Although Pakistan failed to play in the final of ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the country’s internationally famed umpire, Aleem Dar, played a crucial role in the match, thus maintaining a 100% record in the tournament.
Dar, who has won ICC Umpire of the Year award two years running, was immaculate throughout the showpiece event and none of his decisions were proved wrong by the Decision Review System (DRS). Dar’s pin-point judgment earned him the respect of the players who sometimes preferred not to challenge his decisions.
A total of 57 reviews were taken against Dar in the World Cup and amazingly none of his decisions were proved wrong by the technology.
Dar was accorded a warm welcome upon his return to Pakistan from India and was received by a large gathering of supporters and several Pakistan Cricket Board officials.
When asked to comment on Pakistan semi-final exit, Dar was of the view that poor planning and a defensive approach had handed the crucial game to India. -PPI
