New Chandigarh, October 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
For Punjab cricketer Naman Dhir, the third ODI against the West Indies at the New PCA Stadium carries significance beyond the game, as the batting all-rounder prepares to represent India at his home ground with his parents and family members watching from the stands.
The Faridkot-based cricketer’s journey to the international stage has been marked by uncertainty and difficult choices. During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, when opportunities in cricket remained elusive, Dhir had seriously considered moving to Canada, where his sisters live.
Having represented Punjab at the Under-16 level, he struggled to secure further opportunities before his father’s encouragement persuaded him to continue pursuing cricket for another year.
“After Covid-19 in 2020 and 2021, I was thinking of migrating to Canada where my sisters live because I hadn’t gotten any break. At Under-16, I played for Punjab. But after that, I didn’t get any chance. But my dad said, ‘Let’s take one more year. Let’s give it your all this year,'” Dhir recalled in a conversation with broadcasters ahead of the match.
That decision proved pivotal, as he subsequently earned selection for the Ranji Trophy, followed by an opportunity in the Indian Premier League (IPL), setting him on the path towards representing the country.
The upcoming match at the New PCA Stadium is particularly meaningful for Dhir, who began his cricketing journey in the region. With his family, friends and local supporters expected to be present, the occasion offers him an opportunity to play in front of those who have followed his development.
“I think it will be a very good experience for me, playing on my home ground. My family is coming as well. A lot of people who know me have come here as well. I have started my journey here. So, it will be a very special moment for me,” he said.
Dhir is especially keen to showcase his batting in front of his parents, having missed the opportunity to do so in the earlier matches in Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati.
He also clarified that his earlier discomfort was caused by cramps due to the heat and not an injury, adding that he was completely fit.
“Obviously, I’m very keen, especially in front of my home ground and my parents, I’m very keen to bat,” he said.
However, Dhir expressed satisfaction with India’s dominant performance in the series, which the hosts have already clinched. He praised the top-order batters Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill for the way they have controlled proceedings and dictated terms against the West Indies.
“It’s okay if we are dominating. So, I’m happy with that. They’re making it look so easy. It’s not that easy out there if you go in there. They are, I guess, dictating the terms,” Dhir said.
As he prepares for a potentially memorable appearance in the third ODI, Dhir will be looking to make the most of the opportunity to represent India in front of his home crowd.
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