Aleem Dar is close to breaking Steve Bucknor’s record of most Test matches as an umpire in the first Test match between Australia and New Zealand, which commences in Perth on Thursday. The 51-year-old, who took up umpiring after a decade of playing first-class cricket in Pakistan, stands in his 129th Test match as on-field umpire since his debut in Dhaka in 2003 during England’s tour of Bangladesh. He started his international career in 2000 during Pakistan’s home ODI series against Sri Lanka and is is only two matches shy of the record of 209 matches in that format held by Rudi Koertzen of South Africa. Dar has also officiated in 46 Twenty20 Internationals. “It’s been a long journey which would not have been possible without the support of my family. I’d like to thank them, the ICC & PCB for giving me the chances I got,” he said. “I am also thankful to all my colleague match officials for their support over the years.” Dar is a beloved figure in Pakistan and promotes cricket in the country through a local club.