Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has decided to part ways with Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana ahead of the IPL 2026 auction after a three-season stint with the team. Pathirana was initially signed by CSK before the IPL 2023 season and was later retained for a hefty sum of Rs. 13 crore prior to the 2025 mega auction.
Pathirana made a strong impression in his debut season in 2023, showcasing his unique bowling style with steep bounce and the ability to swing the ball at speeds exceeding 140 km/h. He was instrumental in CSK’s title-winning campaign, taking 19 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of 8.01. His performances caught the eye of former CSK captain MS Dhoni, who advised Sri Lanka Cricket to monitor the workload of the promising young bowler.
However, Pathirana has been plagued by injuries since then, limiting his participation in various tournaments. Despite brief appearances in the Asia Cup and IPL, his performance was affected by a hamstring injury that prematurely ended his IPL 2024 season. He also had to withdraw from the SA20 tournament while representing Joburg Super Kings.
Although CSK retained Pathirana for a substantial amount ahead of the 2025 season, his form dipped in IPL 2025, where he managed to take 13 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of 10.13. As a result, the franchise has decided to release him before the upcoming auction.
The news of Pathirana’s release was confirmed on November 15, 2025, marking the end of his association with Chennai Super Kings.
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