SHARJAH SPOTLIGHT: KASHMIRI UMPIRE ASIF IQBAL’S BIG ICC BREAKTHROUGH

On September 2, 2025, when Pakistan faced Afghanistan in a thrilling T20 clash at Sharjah as part of the tri-nation series, a Kashmiri son stood on the field in a role of immense responsibility. Dressed in the ICC umpire’s uniform, Asif Iqbal from Khanpora, Baramulla, was not holding a bat or ball, but the decision-making power that governs the flow of international cricket. This moment was not just a professional milestone for him—it was history in the making for Kashmir. His inclusion in the ICC International Development Panel of Umpires and his assignment to officiate in this high-profile tri-nation series is the remarkable achievement that has brought him into the spotlight and made Kashmir proud.

Asif’s journey began in the narrow lanes of Khanpora, where cricket was more than just a pastime—it was a passion. Born on 25 December 1981, he grew up like countless Kashmiri youngsters, watching iconic matches, particularly the electrifying India-Pakistan encounters and playing cricket in his locality. But unlike most who dreamt of playing internationally, Asif found his calling in umpiring—a less glamorous but equally critical aspect of the sport.

Moving to the United Arab Emirates opened doors for him to pursue this dream more seriously. Starting in 2007 under the Emirates Cricket Board, he spent years officiating domestic and local matches, gradually earning respect for his accuracy, calmness and deep knowledge of the game. His dedication led him to earn Level-1 and Level-2 umpiring certifications through the Asian Cricket Council, including specialized training in Sri Lanka. These milestones laid the foundation for his professional growth and eventual recognition by the International Cricket Council.

Over the years, Asif steadily built his career, umpiring in seventeen T20 Internationals, four ODIs and several women’s matches. His assignments included prestigious tournaments like the ACC Premier Cup, the ILT20 in the UAE and the Women’s Premier Cup. Each opportunity added to his experience, polishing him into an official trusted with high-pressure games on the global stage. Yet, it was the Pakistan vs Afghanistan T20 in Sharjah, part of the tri-nation series that also included UAE, which marked his biggest breakthrough—bringing him into the global limelight and turning him into a source of pride for his hometown and the entire Kashmir Valley.

What makes this achievement truly remarkable is the resilience behind it. Umpiring is often a thankless job, demanding not only technical mastery but also immense mental strength. One wrong decision can invite criticism from fans, players and the media. But Asif has shown that staying calm under pressure, being disciplined and constantly learning are the traits that separate good umpires from great ones. His role in Sharjah was proof of his ability to handle the highest level of responsibility with composure.

For Kashmiri youth, his story is not just about cricket; it is about breaking barriers and creating new possibilities. Coming from a place where opportunities are often limited, Asif demonstrated that success knows no boundaries of geography or profession. While many young boys in Baramulla dream of becoming cricketers, his path shows that there are many ways to contribute to the game and achieve international recognition. Whether as a player, coach, analyst or umpire, determination and persistence can carve the road to success.

Asif himself acknowledges the role of mentors and inspirations in his journey—figures like Aleem Dar and Simon Taufel, legendary umpires whose professionalism he admires, as well as local guides who shaped his early steps. His willingness to remain a student of the game even after nearly two decades of umpiring is one of the key reasons for his rise.

Today, when Asif Iqbal walks onto the field, he represents not just the ICC but also the resilience and talent of Kashmir. His achievement in officiating in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-UAE tri-nation series is a shining example of how dreams can be realized with perseverance and focus. For the youth of Kashmir, his journey is a reminder that success doesn’t always follow the conventional path and sometimes the less-travelled road leads to the biggest victories.

Asif’s story is more than personal glory; it is collective pride. He has emerged as one of the “Gems of Kashmir” and his recent achievement at Sharjah will be remembered as a milestone that inspires countless others to chase their dreams fearlessly.