![Matheesha Pathirana [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1775898895070_Matheesha Pathirana (1).jpg)
Matheesha Pathirana [Source: AFP]
Kolkata Knight Riders are facing serious challenges in their bowling unit during the IPL 2026 season. The situation has become more difficult as there is still no clear update on Matheesha Pathirana’s availability.
The Sri Lankan pacer is waiting for clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket, as he has not yet completed the required fitness tests.
Notably, Pathirana is currently recovering from a calf strain that he suffered during the T20 World Cup. He has started bowling again in practice sessions, which shows some progress.
Matheesha Pathirana need to clear fitness test
Even so, his participation in IPL matches remains uncertain until he successfully clears several fitness benchmarks. These include sprint tests, agility drills, and endurance assessments, all of which are mandatory for selection.
It is important to understand that Matheesha Pathirana is not the only player facing this delay. He is among 15 centrally contracted Sri Lankan players who have not yet completed their fitness tests.
So far, only 24 out of 45 players have passed these requirements. Injuries and logistical issues have caused this delay, which has directly affected IPL teams. In KKR’s case, Pathirana’s absence has significantly disrupted their plans.
Also Read: KKR Called To Bring Back Gautam Gambhir Amid IPL 2026 Slump
Positive Signs From Sri Lanka
There has been a slight positive development recently. Matheesha Pathirana’s manager shared a picture on social media featuring him alongside Dwayne Bravo, who is currently working as a mentor for KKR.
The caption hinted at a possible return to India soon, which has raised hopes among fans and the team. Notably, with KKR set to face Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday, April 14, and the manager adding “See you soon,” it is widely expected that the Sri Lankan pacer may return for this match.
It is worth mentioning that Pathirana and Bravo previously shared the dressing room at Chennai Super Kings, creating memorable moments together. Their connection dates back to IPL 2022, which was Bravo’s final season and Pathirana’s debut season.
KKR’s bowling struggles
KKR’s bowling struggles have been clearly visible in the early stages of the tournament. The absence of key Indian pacers, along with Matheesha Pathirana’s delay, has left the team short of experienced options.
The current attack, led by Blessing Muzarabani and Vaibhav Arora, has not been able to control runs effectively. The team failed to defend a total of over 200 against Mumbai Indians and conceded 226 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad. In their previous match, they could not defend a score of 182 runs.
It is also important to note that the spin department has also not provided much support. Varun Chakaravarthy has been expensive in his outings, which has added to the team’s problems. A rain-affected match against Punjab Kings gave KKR their first point of the season.
Even then, their overall performance has remained underwhelming. The three-time champions are currently placed near the bottom of the table at number nine, with a net run rate of -1.315.
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