Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana grabbed attention at the IPL 2026 auction after being picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs. 18 crore on Tuesday. The signing marked one of the biggest moments of the auction and underlined the franchise’s faith in the young pacer.
Strong bidding pushes Pathirana’s price sky high:
The bidding for Pathirana started with Delhi Capitals, who opened at his base price of Rs. 2 crore. Lucknow Super Giants soon joined the contest, and the price quickly climbed past the Rs. 10 crore mark as interest intensified.
Kolkata Knight Riders then stepped in and sealed the deal at Rs. 18 crore, making the 22-year-old their second major purchase of the auction. Earlier, KKR had already made a big statement by signing Australian all-rounder Cameron Green.
Perfect timing before the auction:
Matheesha Pathirana went into the auction with momentum on his side. Just a day earlier, he produced an impressive match-winning spell in the UAE’s ILT20, finishing with figures of 4 for 19 in three overs. His performance included a wicket-maiden during the PowerPlay, serving as a timely reminder of his ability.
After the game, Matheesha Pathirana spoke openly about his recent journey, saying, “Actually, I’m getting this feeling after one year,” Pathirana told the host broadcaster after the game. “I struggled a lot in the last few months and worked hard. But I’m still not in my best rhythm but improving and this will improve my confidence. Actually, very good point for us [Nissanka and other Sri Lankans doing well in T20 cricket] and we have a World Cup coming up in home conditions as well. I’m just doing my things and calming myself.”
A proven performer in the IPL:
Pathirana has already built a solid reputation in the IPL. He has taken 47 wickets in 32 matches for Chennai Super Kings, maintaining an economy rate of just over eight. His unique slingy action makes him difficult to pick up, especially in the death overs.
He played a key role in CSK’s title-winning season in 2023, claiming 19 wickets while keeping his economy at eight. That campaign firmly established him as one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in the tournament.
Released after a difficult season:
Ahead of the 2025 season, CSK retained Pathirana for Rs. 13 crore. However, the following campaign did not go as planned. He managed 13 wickets in 12 matches but struggled with an economy rate of 10.13. Ongoing injury concerns eventually led to his release before the IPL 2026 auction.
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Now with Kolkata Knight Riders, Matheesha Pathirana will be hoping for a fresh start as he looks to rediscover his best form and make a strong impact in the upcoming season.
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