Chennai Super Kings have made one of the boldest decisions of the IPL 2026 retention window by parting ways with Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana. The release ends a three-season association
with the franchise, during which the young pacer showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to maintain consistency due to persistent injuries.
Pathirana, who joined CSK ahead of the 2023 season, made an instant impression with his slingy action, extra bounce and high pace. His breakout year came in 2023, where he picked up 19 wickets in 12 games at an impressive economy rate, playing a major role in CSK's title-winning campaign.
His performances even led MS Dhoni to urge Sri Lanka Cricket to manage the youngster's workload carefully.
However, what followed was a period marked by fitness troubles. Repeated injuries disrupted his rhythm, forcing him to frequently modify aspects of his bowling action. A hamstring issue prematurely ended his IPL 2024 season, and he later withdrew from SA20 while representing Joburg Super Kings. Although CSK backed him by retaining him for ₹13 crore ahead of the 2025 mega auction, Pathirana could not rediscover his early spark.
His 2025 season reflected those struggles-13 wickets in 12 matches with an economy exceeding 10. The decline in effectiveness, combined with his injury-prone run, pushed CSK toward a difficult but necessary call before the 2026 auction.
Releasing Pathirana not only opens space in the squad but also frees up ₹13 crore, contributing to CSK's sizeable auction purse of ₹43.40 crore-the second-highest this year. With the franchise finishing last in IPL 2025, major restructuring was inevitable. The path to renewal has included trading out stalwarts like Ravindra Jadeja and bringing in marquee wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for ₹18 crore.
Despite the release, CSK have not closed the door on Pathirana entirely. The franchise may attempt to bring him back at a lower price if the auction dynamics work in their favour. With Nathan Ellis already in the squad, CSK also have a ready overseas pace option should they choose not to pursue the Sri Lankan quick again.
For now, Pathirana enters the auction pool looking for a fresh start, while CSK look ahead to a rebuilding phase with renewed flexibility and intent.
