Veteran Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has arrived in Kolkata to complete his move to the Kolkata Knight Riders, a timely addition for a franchise currently rooted at the bottom of the IPL standings. The team confirmed the development on Sunday, with Pathirana set to join the group ahead of the Knight Riders’ next outing against the Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.
KKR confirms Pathirana’s arrival
The franchise stated that Pathirana has recovered and is now in position with the squad. After dealing with a calf strain picked up during the T20 World Cup, he passed the required fitness assessment conducted by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Only after clearing that mandatory test did he receive a no-objection certificate, allowing him to travel and link up with KKR.
Fitness and selection plans for the matches ahead
While Pathirana has joined the side, KKR’s likely immediate approach is cautious. The team’s medical staff will monitor his match readiness over the next couple of training sessions before deciding whether he can be included in the playing XI straight away.
Why he may not play immediately
- KKR’s medical team will evaluate his match fitness during a couple of training sessions before final selection.
- Given the recent calf issue, the franchise is expected to manage his workload carefully.
Timeline, purchase fee, and the points situation
Pathirana—who was acquired by KKR for Rs 18 crore at the last IPL auction—was widely expected to miss the opening phase of the campaign due to the calf strain sustained earlier this year during the T20 World Cup. His initial arrival was projected to be before KKR’s game against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Friday, but the move has now happened following his fitness clearance.
The update is especially significant for KKR, who are still searching for their first victory after six matches. They remain in the lowest position on the points table, making any reinforcement—particularly in the pace department—an important boost as they prepare to take on the Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.
