Matheesha Pathirana’s long-awaited arrival has given the squad a fresh boost, with fans finally getting a glimpse of the Sri Lankan pacer after the win over LSG. Bought for ₹18 crore at the auction, Pathirana had been sidelined since the T20 World Cup 2026 after picking up an injury against Australia, leaving the franchise waiting for his return to action.
The fast bowler received his NOC from Sri Lanka Cricket and reached Kolkata on April 19 before joining the support staff for his first training session the next day. He also travelled with the squad to Lucknow, though he was still short of full match readiness at that stage.
Since then, Matheesha Pathirana has stepped up his workload and now looks closer than ever to making his comeback. The big question, though, is whether he will be included in the XI for the upcoming SRH clash. Tim Southee said the final call will depend on conditions and the overall balance of the side. He confirmed that Pathirana has settled in well and has been bowling strongly in training.
ALSO READ: Josh Inglis Joins LSG For IPL 2026 Clash Against MI In Crucial Boost
“Yeah, he’s arrived. He’s been around the group for a little bit now. So, we’ll look at conditions and make a decision on the side that we think’s best for tomorrow’s game,” Tim Southee said. “He’s been bowling well at training and it’s great to have him as a part of the side.”
Pathirana’s return could also influence matchups, especially against in-form Heinrich Klaasen. The Sri Lankan pacer has dismissed Klaasen three times in the IPL and has conceded only 23 runs off 14 balls against him, making it a matchup worth watching closely.
Southee added that selection will also depend on overseas combinations and the conditions expected on match day. “Obviously, the balance of the side, make-up of your team… those decisions will be taken into account along with the conditions that we’re looking to be faced with tomorrow,” he explained.
ALSO READ: Cheteshwar Pujara Highlights IPL 2026 Batting Approach Revolution
Against SRH, Matheesha Pathirana has already shown promise in the IPL, taking three wickets in three matches at an average of 22. His return could be a major boost as the team looks to strengthen its bowling attack.
