Matheesha Pathirana will join Kolkata Knight Riders late on Saturday, April 18 for the 2026 Indian Premier League season, in a timely boost for the three-time champions who are still winless after six matches.
The Sri Lankan quick recently obtained his no-objection certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket. clearing the way for his participation in IPL. Pathirana had been sidelined with a calf injury sustained during Sri Lanka’s group stage clash against Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and was awaiting clearance after completing his recovery.
Currently in transit, Pathirana is expected to join the team ahead of their clash against Riyan Parag-led Rajasthan Royals on Sunday, April 19 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
WILL PATHIRANA BE AVAILABLE AGAINST RAJASTHAN?
Pathirana will 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 during a couple of training sessions, a team source said.
Having recovered from an injury, Pathirana was initially expected to join the team ahead of their clash against the Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Friday, April 17.
KKR bought the Sri Lankan pacer for Rs 18 crore after being released by Chennai Super Kings following a subdued IPL 2025 season. In 32 IPL matches, he took 47 wickets, with his standout campaign coming in CSK’s title run in 2023, where he took 19 wickets in 12 games.
Since then, injuries and a drop in form have reduced his impact. In 2025, he managed 13 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 32.62 and an economy rate of 10.14. Known for his accurate yorkers and effectiveness at the death, Pathirana’s return could be vital for KKR, who have struggled to control the final overs this season.
Kolkata Knight Riders have had a disastrous start to IPL 2026, struggling to get out of the bottom of the table and falling far short of playoff contention. They fell to a five-wicket defeat against the Gujarat Titans on Friday and will be desperate to bounce back against the Royals.
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