Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have received a significant boost as pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set to rejoin the squad for their upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chepauk. Pathirana has obtained his No-Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket, allowing him to participate in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Following a calf injury sustained during Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup 2026 game against Australia, Pathirana missed the initial four matches of the season, eagerly awaiting clearance from the Sri Lanka cricket authorities.
Pathirana’s potential return to the lineup could happen as early as the match against his former team in Chennai. KKR has faced challenges in Pathirana’s absence, failing to secure a victory in the first four games, which include three defeats and one washout. The team has been grappling with a series of injuries this season, with players like Harshit Rana and Akash Deep ruled out from the start. Additionally, Varun Chakravarthy’s recent finger injury has kept him sidelined for the past two matches, with uncertainty surrounding his return date, leaving KKR’s bowling unit under strain and lacking consistency.
Acquired by KKR for Rs. 18 crore after being released by CSK post IPL 2025, Pathirana’s return is eagerly anticipated. Despite a decline in form and injury setbacks in recent seasons, Pathirana’s expertise in yorkers and death bowling is expected to bolster KKR’s bowling arsenal, particularly during the crucial final overs, where the team has struggled this season. His comeback comes at a crucial juncture for KKR, following a narrow defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in a match where the team’s bowling showed vulnerabilities, especially in the closing stages.
This development is poised to bring a much-needed boost to KKR’s bowling department, enhancing their chances of success in the upcoming matches of the IPL 2026 season.