Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Matheesha Pathirana is set to join Kolkata Knight Riders late on Saturday, April 18, for the Indian Premier League 2026 season, in a timely boost for the three-time champions who are still winless after six matches.
The Sri Lankan quick recently secured his No-Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket, clearing the way for his IPL participation. Pathirana had been sidelined with a calf injury sustained during Sri Lanka’s group-stage clash with Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and was awaiting clearance after completing his recovery.
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Currently in transit, Pathirana is expected to link up with the squad ahead of their clash against Rajasthan Royals, led by Riyan Parag, on Sunday, April 19 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
WILL PATHIRANA BE AVAILABLE AGAINST RAJASTHAN?
Pathirana is set to join the Kolkata Knight Riders squad, but is unlikely to be rushed straight into the playing XI. The team’s medical staff will first assess his match fitness over a couple of training sessions, a team source said.
Having recovered from injury, Pathirana was initially expected to link up with the side ahead of their clash against Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, in Ahmedabad on Friday, April 17.
The Sri Lankan pacer was bought by KKR for Rs 18 crore after being released by Chennai Super Kings following a subdued IPL 2025 season. In 32 IPL matches, he has taken 47 wickets, with his standout campaign coming in CSK’s 2023 title-winning run, where he picked up 19 wickets in 12 games.
Injuries and a dip in form have since curtailed his impact. In 2025, he managed 13 wickets from 12 matches at an average of 32.62 and an economy rate of 10.14. Known for his pinpoint yorkers and effectiveness at the death, Pathirana’s return could be vital for KKR, who have struggled to control the closing overs this season.
Kolkata Knight Riders have endured a disastrous start to IPL 2026, struggling to move off the bottom of the table and falling well short of playoff contention. They slumped to a five-wicket defeat against Gujarat Titans on Friday and will be desperate to bounce back against the Royals.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
