Matheesha Pathirana will join Kolkata Knight Riders late on Saturday, April 18 for the Indian Premier League 2026 season, a timely addition for the three-time champions who are still winless after six matches.
The Sri Lankan quick recently received his No Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket, cleared the way for his IPL participation. Pathirana was ruled out due to a calf injury sustained during Sri Lanka’s group stage clash with Australia at the 2026 Men’s World T20 Cup and was awaiting release after completing his recovery.
Pathirana is currently on his way, expected to link up with the team ahead of their clash with the Riyan Parag-led Rajasthan Royals on Sunday, April 19 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
WILL PATHIRANA BE AVAILABLE AGAINST RAJASTHAN?
Pathirana is all set to join Kolkata Knight Riders but is unlikely to be rushed straight into the playing XI. The team’s medical staff will first assess his match fitness during several practices, a team source said.
After recovering from injury, Pathirana was initially expected to link up with the side ahead of their clash against the Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans 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 after a subdued IPL 2025 season. He took 47 wickets in 32 IPL matches with his standout campaign coming in 2023 when CSK won the title where he took 19 wickets in 12 matches.
Injuries and a dip in form have since limited 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 accurate yorkers and efficiency at the death, Pathiran’s return could be vital for KKR, who have struggled to control the final overs this season.
Kolkata Knight Riders have endured a disastrous start to IPL 2026, struggling to move from the bottom of the table and falling short of the play-off contention. They suffered a five-wicket defeat against Gujarat Titans on Friday and will be desperate to bounce back against the Royals.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
18 Apr 2026 21:45 IST
