Matheesha Pathirana’s journey with Chennai Super Kings has officially come to an emotional end, marking the close of a chapter that played a defining role in shaping the Sri Lankan pacer’s IPL career. Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, CSK made the tough call to release Pathirana and, in a surprising move, stayed out of the bidding entirely as one of their most reliable death-over specialists found a new home.
Once the gavel started moving, Matheesha Pathirana quickly became one of the hottest properties at the auction table. Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants sparked the early battle, but it was Kolkata Knight Riders who ultimately landed the 22-year-old, securing his services for a hefty ₹18 crore. The price tag underlined his value, even as his former franchise watched from the sidelines.
Over four seasons in yellow, Matheesha Pathirana featured in 32 IPL matches and picked up 47 wickets, carving out a reputation as CSK’s go-to option at the death. More than just numbers, his impact was defined by composure under pressure — a trait nurtured under MS Dhoni’s leadership.
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In a heartfelt Instagram post, Matheesha Pathirana reflected on what CSK meant to him on and off the field. “From a boy with a dream to wearing yellow with pride. CSK gave me more than just cricket; it gave me belief, confidence, and a family I will always cherish,” he wrote.
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The young fast bowler admitted the exit stung, especially because he fell just short of the 50-wicket milestone for the franchise. He revealed that he had hoped to sign off on a special note, giving everything till the very end.
Matheesha Pathirana also paid glowing tribute to MS Dhoni and the CSK management for backing him during the early, uncertain stages of his career. He thanked the coaching staff, teammates, and the loyal CSK fanbase for standing by him through highs and lows, calling Chennai a place that would always feel like home.
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Pathirana was a key cog in CSK’s IPL 2023 title-winning campaign, finishing with 19 wickets at an average of 19.53. Injuries restricted him to just six matches in 2024, though he still impressed with 13 wickets. The 2025 season was more challenging, yielding 13 wickets from 12 games as consistency proved elusive.
Now dressed in purple, Pathirana begins a fresh chapter with KKR — but the yellow jersey, and the memories forged in it, will always remain close to his heart.
