After the side failed to gain ODI status at World Cricket League 2 back in 2019, Dhaliwal was a vital cog in the Canadian rebuild, claiming four Player of the Match performances in the 2019-2023 Cricket World Cup Challenge League across legs in Malaysia and at home.
After Canada reclaimed ODI status in 2023, Dhaliwal scored half-centuries against Nepal and Namibia in winning efforts in the ongoing Cricket World Cup League 2 cycle.
For Dhaliwal, however, making the cut for the 2024 World Cup remains the standout memory.
“The best memory was when we first qualified for the [2024 T20] World Cup,” he said. “After that, I scored in the opening game of the World Cup last time. Also, when I became a captain, that was a proud moment for me.”
Though his playing career may be over, Dhaliwal hopes to stay in touch with the game and contribute to the development of the new generation.
“I’m thinking of coaching but not on a national level,” he said. “My priority would be the youngsters. That’s something that would give me happiness. It’s hard to leave cricket right away and once cricket is in your blood, it’s very hard to stop playing.”
At the T20 World Cup 2026, Dhaliwal has scored 108 runs in three matches, including 64 against South Africa.
