Chennai Super Kings made headlines ahead of the IPL 2026 auction by releasing Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, despite his previous success with the team. Pathirana had joined CSK in 2022 as a replacement player and had been a key contributor to the team’s success, but the management decided to let him go to free up space in their auction purse.
Despite Pathirana’s release, there was speculation that Chennai may look to buy him back at a lower price in the auction. However, reports suggest that Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals have shown interest in signing the talented bowler. KKR, in particular, have had informal talks with Pathirana and have the largest purse heading into the auction.
On the other hand, Chennai is focused on acquiring all-rounders after losing Jadeja and Curran in a blockbuster trade involving Sanju Samson. They are reportedly targeting players like Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. It remains to be seen how the auction will unfold and whether Chennai will be able to secure the players they are eyeing.
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