Matheesha Pathirana Set to Join KKR; Available for CSK Clash

In a significant boost for the struggling Kolkata Knight Riders, Matheesha Pathirana has obtained his No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from Sri Lanka Cricket and is set to join the KKR squad, Cricbuzz has learned.

The 23-year-old sling-arm quick will be available for selection as early as their next match against Chennai Super Kings in Chennai on April 14, a fixture that pits him against his erstwhile franchise.

Pathirana missed the early stages of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury sustained during the T20 World Cup that preceded the tournament. He has been out of action since. KKR, also reeling from the loss of Harshit Rana and Akash Deep, did not seek a replacement for Pathirana and remained in constant communication with Sri Lanka Cricket to monitor his recovery.

His inclusion comes at a crucial juncture for the two-time champions, who currently find themselves at the bottom of the table with three losses and one washed-out fixture.

In Pathirana’s absence, Blessing Muzarabani brought in as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman has been the only overseas quick featuring regularly. In the last game, Cameron Green also chipped in with the ball after playing as a pure batter in the first three matches.

Pathirana, renowned for his slingy action and pinpoint yorkers, will be expected to add much-needed firepower to KKR’s pace attack as they seek to revive their faltering campaign.

                                               

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