Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana is expected to miss the opening matches of the IPL 2026 season, with his return likely only around mid-April. The update was confirmed by Abhishek Nayar, head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders.

Pathirana has been sidelined due to a calf strain that also forced him out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 earlier this year. The young pacer managed to feature in just three matches during the global tournament before suffering the injury. He was visibly in discomfort and had to be assisted off the field during Sri Lanka’s clash against Australia.

Currently undergoing rehabilitation, Pathirana’s recovery is being closely monitored, with team management keen to ensure he regains full fitness before returning to competitive cricket. His absence will be a setback for Kolkata Knight Riders, given his reputation as a specialist death-over bowler with a unique sling action.

The franchise is expected to manage his workload carefully once he rejoins the squad, especially with a long tournament ahead. Pathirana’s return in the latter half of the competition could prove crucial as teams push for playoff positions.

For now, both Sri Lanka and KKR will be focused on his complete recovery, with hopes that the talented speedster will soon be back delivering his trademark yorkers on the big stage.

Sri Lanka’s dynamic all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has opted out of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), fueling speculation that he could soon be seen in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as an injury replacement.

Although no official announcement has been made, reports suggest Shanaka is already in talks with IPL franchises searching for reinforcements. His versatility as a fast-bowling all-rounder makes him a valuable option for teams dealing with fitness concerns in their squads.

One franchise under the spotlight is the Rajasthan Royals, who may be forced to reshuffle after injury worries surrounding England’s Sam Curran. Shanaka’s skill set combining aggressive batting with reliable seam bowling positions him as a natural fit to step into Curran’s role should the Royals need a replacement.

With the IPL season approaching, Shanaka’s withdrawal from the PSL appears to be a strategic move, potentially opening the door for his debut in the world’s most lucrative cricket league.

Pathirana, Wanindu, Eshan Await Fitness Nod for IPL 2026

Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga, and all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga are set to join their respective franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, pending clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) mandatory fitness tests.

The assessments, scheduled in the coming days, will determine their readiness after injuries kept them out of the ICC T20 World Cup earlier this year. Early signs suggest the players are recovering well, and officials remain optimistic about their participation.

Pathirana, who became the most expensive Sri Lankan player in IPL history after Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for INR 18 crore at the mini-auction, is expected to be a key figure with his death-over bowling expertise. He previously impressed at Chennai Super Kings, earning recognition for his composure under pressure.

While the trio awaits clearance, several Sri Lankan cricketers have already received their No Objection Certificates (NOCs). Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Dushmantha Chameera are preparing to join their franchises, with Nissanka heading to Delhi Capitals, Chameera also continuing with Delhi Capitals, and Mendis retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
In total, seven Sri Lankan players will feature in IPL 2026, underlining the growing presence of the island nation’s talent in the league.