KKR receive Matheesha Pathirana boost, pacer set to join squad before CSK clash
KKR have received a timely boost ahead of their must-win game against CSK as Matheesha Pathirana is set to join the squad before the clash in Chennai. Pathirana has been out of action since the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have received a crucial boost ahead of their upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chepauk as pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set to rejoin the squad. The Sri Lankan fast bowler secured his No-Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket, allowing him to participate in the IPL 2026 season, according to Cricbuzz.
Pathirana could be available for selection as early as the clash against his former franchise in Chennai, having missed the first four matches of the season. The pacer has been sidelined since sustaining a calf injury during Sri Lanka's group-stage encounter with Australia in the T20 World Cup 2026. Since recovering from injury, Pathirana was waiting to get the clearance from Sri Lanka cricket.
KKR'S BOWLING WOES
KKR have struggled in Pathirana’s absence, failing to register a win in their opening four fixtures, which include three losses and one washout. The three-time IPL champions have been hit hard by injuries this season, with Harshit Rana and Akash Deep ruled out before the campaign began.
The team also parted ways with Mustafizur Rahman prior to the season, signing Blessing Muzarabani as his replacement. Muzarabani has taken four wickets in two matches but has conceded runs at an economy rate of 10.71.
Further complications arose with Varun Chakravarthy missing the last two games due to a finger injury, and his return date remains uncertain. These absences have left KKR’s bowling attack stretched and inconsistent.
Pathirana was acquired by KKR for Rs. 18 crore after being released by CSK following the IPL 2025 season, where he struggled to make a significant impact. Over 32 IPL matches, he has claimed 47 wickets. His standout performance came in CSK’s 2023 title-winning campaign, where he took 19 wickets in 12 matches.
However, injuries and a dip in form have curtailed his influence in recent seasons. In 2025, he took 13 wickets from 12 matches at an average of 32.62 and an economy rate of 10.14. Known for his yorkers and death bowling, Pathirana’s return is timely for KKR, who have faltered in the closing overs this season.
The team suffered a narrow defeat against Lucknow Super Giants, losing on the last ball after Mukul Choudhary dominated the final four overs. Pathirana’s presence is expected to strengthen KKR’s bowling options during the crucial death overs going forward.
IPL 2026 | IPL Schedule | IPL Points Table | IPL Player Stats | Purple Cap | Orange Cap | IPL Videos | Cricket News | Live Score