Home / Sports / CSK Releases Star Pacer Matheesha Pathirana Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
CSK Releases Star Pacer Matheesha Pathirana Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
15 Nov
Summary
- CSK releases Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana before IPL 2026 auction
- Pathirana was retained for ₹13 crore before 2025 mega auction
- Recurring injuries hampered his IPL performances in recent seasons
In a surprising move, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has decided to release Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Pathirana, who was first signed by CSK before the 2023 season, had been retained by the franchise for a hefty ₹13 crore before the 2025 mega auction.
Pathirana made an immediate impact in 2023, taking 19 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 8.01 as CSK lifted the IPL title. His slingy release, steep bounce, and ability to swing the ball at 140-plus impressed many, with then-captain MS Dhoni even cautioning Sri Lanka Cricket about managing the young quick's workload.
However, Pathirana has since battled recurring injuries that have hampered his IPL involvement. A hamstring injury cut short his IPL 2024 campaign, and he later withdrew midway from the SA20 with Joburg Super Kings. In IPL 2025, he was below his best, finishing with 13 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 10.13.
With the CSK management now deciding to part ways with the talented pacer, Pathirana's future remains uncertain as he heads into the IPL 2026 auction.
