Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set to be one of the hot picks at the IPL 2026 auction after being released ahead of the season. The young quick couldn’t replicate his earlier success in 2025 as he returned
from injury, picking 13 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 10.13. Despite an underwhelming year, his overall IPL numbers of 47 wickets in 32 games at an economy of 8.68 make him a valuable addition.
Known for his slingy action, bounce, and ability to bowl fast at the death, Pathirana’s breakout 2023 season made him a specialist in pressure situations. With franchises constantly searching for reliable bowling options, his skill set makes him a premium pick.
Here are 3 teams that could start a bidding war for Matheesha Pathirana at IPL 2026 Auction
3. Lucknow Super Giants
Lucknow Super Giants, who will enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction with INR 22.95 crore, look to strengthen their depleted pace attack, and Matheesha Pathirana has been one of their top overseas targets. LSG struggled last season with multiple injuries to their Indian fast bowlers, and despite trading in Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar, the team still lacks a specialist overseas pacer.
With Will O’Rourke and Shamar Joseph released, the franchise is now eyeing Pathirana as the ideal solution. Pathirana will be a perfect complement to Shami. His addition would bring the bowling balance LSG missed throughout the previous campaign.
2. Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals could be one of the strongest contenders to pursue Matheesha Pathirana at the IPL 2026 auction. With Pathirana retained last season for INR 13 crore, injuries and poor performances reduced his impact, leading to his release by CSK.
Rajasthan has an INR 16.05 crore purse and a clear need for a wicket-taking fast bowler to partner Jofra Archer. Their pace attack struggled in IPL 2025, and the franchise is actively scouting bowlers who can deliver in the death overs.
1. Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders are reportedly eyeing Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana for the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Released by CSK after four seasons, the right-arm speedster has attracted strong interest across franchises, thanks to his action, yorkers, and ability to handle pressure in the death overs.
KKR, who freed up a massive purse by releasing, are in urgent need of a specialist death bowler. With Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora handling the new ball, the franchise is keen to add an overseas seamer, an area where Pathirana has excelled, picking 47 wickets in 32 IPL matches. KKR’s financial strength and clear requirement for a death-overs specialist make them strong contenders to secure Pathirana at the 2026 auction.
