Matheesha Pathirana injured (Source: AP)
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have suffered a major setback in the ongoing IPL 2026 after Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
To replace the injured pacer, KKR have signed Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter Luvnith Sisodia ahead of their final league-stage clash against Delhi Capitals at Eden Gardens.
Pathirana's exit comes at a crucial stage of the season when KKR are still fighting for a playoff spot. The franchise had invested heavily in the Sri Lankan speedster during the IPL 2026 auction, signing him for INR 18 crore.
However, injuries throughout the season prevented the young pacer from making a significant impact for the team.
Matheesha Pathirana's IPL 2026 campaign ends in disappointment
Matheesha Pathirana suffered a left calf injury during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 while playing for Sri Lanka. Due to the injury, he missed the initial phase of IPL 2026 and joined the KKR squad after receiving clearance and an NOC from SLC.
Even after joining the squad, Matheesha Pathirana remained on the bench for several matches as he continued his recovery process. But he finally made his first appearance of the season in KKR's match against the Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on May 16.
Also Read: "18 Crore For 8 Balls": KKR's Matheesha Pathirana Leaves Fans Frustrated After Injury On Debut
The fast bowler looked in good rhythm early on and conceded only seven runs in his opening over.
However, trouble began in his second over when he suddenly stopped during his run-up after bowling two deliveries and appeared to be in severe discomfort while clutching his left calf.
KKR names Luvnith Sisodia as replacement for injured Matheesha Pathirana
Matheesha Pathirana was ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. To fill his place, KKR signed Luvnith Sisodia for INR 30 lakh. The star player has previously been associated with both KKR and RCB.
Can KKR still reach the IPL 2026 playoffs?
Despite the injury setback, KKR are still mathematically alive in the playoff race. The team currently sits 6th on the points table with 13 points and will face Delhi Capitals in their final fixture on May 24 at Eden Gardens.
However, KKR's qualification hopes depend heavily on other results. They need Rajasthan Royals to lose against Mumbai Indians to stay in contention.
If that happens, KKR must then defeat Delhi Capitals by a massive margin to improve their NRR and overtake PBKS for a place in the Eliminator.
The road ahead remains extremely challenging, but KKR will hope to finish strongly.
Will Luvnith Sisodia get a chance in the playing XI for KKR vs DC? Sakshi’s Opinion
Matheesha Pathirana’s injury is undoubtedly a huge disappointment for KKR. Unfortunately, injuries never allowed him to settle into the tournament this season. Luvnith Sisodia, if given a chance in KKR’s playing XI, would have an opportunity to prove himself on a big stage.
But it is important to note that Luvnith Sisodia might not get a place in the KKR's playing XI.
