During the IPL 2026 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders made significant acquisitions in the form of Cameron Green and Finn Allen to address their all-rounder and wicketkeeper-batter needs. However, they still lacked a reliable overseas death-overs specialist. This void was filled by Matheesha Pathirana, known for his ability to bowl yorkers at 150 kph with precision.
Pathirana was highly regarded by M.S. Dhoni during his time at Chennai Super Kings, who saw him as a valuable asset for the team. Despite being retained for Rs. 13 crore in the previous mega auction, injuries had hampered Pathirana’s performance and availability, leading to his release by CSK.
Now, with his workload being managed by Sri Lanka Cricket, Pathirana made his comeback in the ILT20 for Sharjah Warriorz and entered the IPL auction at the maximum base price. Teams like KKR, CSK, and Punjab Kings were all interested in his services due to their need for an elite overseas pace bowler.
Pathirana boasts an impressive record in the IPL, with the fifth-best strike rate among fast bowlers with over 20 wickets. He has taken 43 wickets in overs 11 to 20, making him one of the most effective bowlers in the death overs. KKR saw the value in his performance and made the strategic decision to acquire him.
Published on Dec 16, 2025.
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