Saleema Imtiaz added a new chapter in Pakistan cricket after becoming the first woman from her country to be included in the ICC International Development Panel of Umpires. Having already officiated in 22 T20Is, 16 as on-field umpire and six as TV umpire, Saleema has taken rapid strides in her career of umpiring. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the announcement on Sunday.

After taking the huge step, Saleema hailed her daughter Kainat Imtiaz for inspiring her with passion and energy. Kainat has played international cricket for Pakistan and has also worked as a commentator. She is also a part of the commentary panel for the upcoming T20I series between Pakistan and South Africa.

“Kainat Imtiaz is fulfilling my dream. My dream was to represent Pakistan. Apart from being a good daughter, Kainat is also a good cricketer. I have played a lot of cricket in my mohallas while growing up. In 2006, I took up umpiring and I get inspired by Kainat as she is good and energetic,” Saleema told Pakistan cricket.

‘Look forward to being like my mom’

2022 was a crucial year for Saleema after the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) decided to have an all-female umpires’ panel for the Women’s Asia Cup in Bangladesh. She made her debut in the group stage clash between India and Sri Lanka at the Sylhet Outer Cricket Stadium.

Kainat, who has played 19 ODIs and 21 T20Is, said that she aspires to follow in the footsteps of her mother and bring in laurels for her country. Belonging from a family with a sporting background, Kainat also talked about the pressure of matches where both she and her mother take part.

“I feel proud when I look at my mom. She took up umpiring to fulfill her passion of being on the ground. I look forward to being like my mom and translating my passion for cricket into something which I can return more to my country,” Kainat said.

“Growing up there was a lot of interest in cricket in my house as both my parents are sports instructors. They used to be at my school, so all of my sporting activities have been under them right from the beginning. I am very fortunate to have mentors in them at home.”

“In local tournaments, I have played in the matches which were officiated by her. Such games put more pressure on me, and she is even under pressure. I am not certain about the future and whether I will take up umpiring as a profession, but I am very sure that I want to serve Pakistan as much as possible,” Kainat added.

Kainat last played international cricket on the tour of Australia back in January 2023. She missed the T20 World Cup in South Africa and isn’t a part of the upcoming edition in the UAE as well.