Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has spoken publicly for the first time since linking up with Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2026, expressing determination to rebuild his career after a challenging injury layoff.
“It’s been a challenging few months for me following an unfortunate injury, but I’m grateful for the support throughout this period,” Pathirana said. “I’m now focused on regaining my confidence during the ongoing IPL, contributing to Kolkata Knight Riders and performing to the best of my abilities.”
The 23-year-old added: “I’m looking forward to making a strong comeback and earning my place back in the national team.”
Pathirana passed SLC’s mandatory fitness tests earlier this month and flew out to join the KKR squad, unlike teammates Wanindu Hasaranga and Nuwan Thushara who both failed to clear the fitness bar.
His arrival is timely for KKR, whose bowling unit has been hit by multiple setbacks. Akash Deep and Harshit Rana are nursing injuries, Mustafizur Rahman withdrew from the tournament, and Varun Chakravarthy has struggled for consistency. Pathirana’s slingy pace and death-bowling skills fill an urgent gap.
The pacer’s return to competitive cricket also strengthens his case for selection in Sri Lanka’s upcoming international fixtures, with the national team working to rebuild its fast-bowling stocks.
