Will Matheesha Pathirana play tonight for KKR vs LSG in IPL 2026?
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Matheesha Pathirana has missed all three games for KKR in IPL 2026.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have had a tough start to Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Their bowling unit has not performed well in the matches so far. The team has struggled to control runs. They have also failed to defend big totals. This has put them under pressure in the tournament.
In their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), KKR conceded a big total with SRH smashing 226 runs. The bowlers failed to stop the flow of runs at key moments. Earlier, they also could not defend a 220-plus total against Mumbai Indians (MI). These results have exposed serious issues in their bowling attack.
The rain-hit game against Punjab Kings (PBKS) gave KKR their first point of the season. However, it did not solve their problems. Injuries to key bowlers and the lack of experienced options have made things worse for the team.
Will Matheesha Pathirana play KKR vs LSG clash of IPL 2026
KKR are still waiting for Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana to join the squad. He has not yet received fitness clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket. Without passing the required tests, he cannot get the No Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in the IPL.
Pathirana is recovering from a calf injury suffered during the T20 World Cup. He has started bowling in the nets but is not yet at full intensity. Reports suggest he may take his fitness test soon. If he clears it, he could join the squad by mid-April.
Because of this delay, his availability for tonight’s match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) remains uncertain. There has been no official confirmation from the team management so far.
KKR had invested heavily in Pathirana during the auction. The franchise is hopeful that he will be available later in the season. His presence could strengthen the pace attack. KKR’s pace attack currently looks weak.
At present, the bowling unit depends on players like Blessing Muzarabani and Vaibhav Arora. However, they have struggled to deliver consistent performances. After Mustafizur Rahman’s snub, KKR lack experienced pace options.
The team will hope for quick improvements. Until then, their bowling struggles remain a major concern in IPL 2026.
Why is Matheesha Pathirana not playing yet?
He is waiting for fitness clearance and NOC.
Can Pathirana join KKR later in IPL 2026?
Yes, he may join after passing fitness tests.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Ishika Aggarwal is a passionate sports writer and lifelong cricket fan who thrives on capturing the moments that make the game unforgettable, from last-over thrillers to record-breaking centuries. Through match analysis, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes stories, she brings fans closer to the heartbeat of cricket.