Matheesha Pathirana Set to Join Kolkata Knight Riders for Upcoming Matches

Matheesha Pathirana is making his return to the Kolkata Knight Riders, arriving in India next week. His comeback comes at a crucial time as KKR struggles at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table. With injuries sidelining key players, Pathirana's availability could be a game-changer for the team. As KKR prepares to face the Rajasthan Royals, fans are eager to see how this addition will impact their performance. Read on for more insights into KKR's current challenges and upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 12, 2026, 15:52 IST

Pathirana's Return to KKR

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are poised to receive a significant boost with the imminent return of Matheesha Pathirana. The Sri Lankan fast bowler is scheduled to arrive in India on April 17 and will be eligible for selection for their match against the Rajasthan Royals on April 19. According to reports, Pathirana has successfully passed his fitness assessment and has obtained the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). The SLC had mandated that players must clear a fitness test to receive the NOC.

Pathirana's absence prior to the IPL was due to a calf injury sustained during the 2026 T20 World Cup, which led to his withdrawal from the tournament. He managed to bowl only four deliveries in Sri Lanka's third match against Australia before leaving the field. Initially, he was unable to participate in the IPL as he had not fully recovered in time to take the fitness test. Now, with his fitness restored, Pathirana is eager to make his return to the IPL.

His comeback is particularly crucial for KKR, who are currently missing Indian pacers Harshit Rana and Akash Deep, both of whom are sidelined due to injuries.

KKR's Struggles in IPL 2026

Current Standings of KKR

As the only team without a win in IPL 2026, Kolkata Knight Riders find themselves at the bottom of the points table. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, KKR began their season with a six-wicket loss to the Mumbai Indians, failing to defend a target of 221 runs. In their subsequent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR was bowled out for 161 while chasing a target of 227.

In another setback, KKR could not defend a target of 182 against the Lucknow Super Giants. Currently, they hold just 1 point with a net run rate of -1.315. Their next challenge will be against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 14, following CSK's recent victory over Delhi Capitals, aided by a century from Sanju Samson.