With the Indian Premier League 2026 set to begin on March 28, concerns are emerging for Kolkata Knight Riders after reports suggested that their newly signed pace star Matheesha Pathirana may not be fully fit before the start of the season.

The Sri Lankan fast bowler, who was bought for a massive ₹18 crore (around $18 million in reports) in the recent auction, is currently recovering from an injury that he sustained earlier this year.

Injury During T20 World Cup

Pathirana reportedly suffered a left leg muscle strain on February 18 during a match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 against the Australia national cricket team.

The injury forced him out of the remainder of the tournament, and doctors advised him to rest for at least four weeks.

Although the rest period is nearing completion, sources indicate that returning to full match fitness may take longer, raising doubts about his availability at the start of IPL 2026.

KKR Already Facing Squad Issues

The situation has created additional pressure for Kolkata Knight Riders, who recently had to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad.

If Pathirana is unavailable for the opening matches, the team’s pace attack could become significantly weaker.

From CSK to KKR

Pathirana initially gained fame in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings, where his unique slingy bowling action and ability to bowl yorkers made him one of the most exciting young pacers in T20 cricket.

However, he was released ahead of the latest auction, after which Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for ₹18 crore, making him one of the most expensive signings of the season.

Big Decision Ahead

With the IPL 2026 just days away, the franchise and team management will closely monitor Pathirana’s recovery. Fans will now be hoping the young Sri Lankan pacer regains fitness quickly and can join the squad during the early stages of the tournament.