18 crore star returns, reaches KKR camp in Pathirana, big boost for KKR before the match against Rajasthan

Lucknow/Kolkata: Two exciting matches will be played in IPL 2026 on Sunday 19 April. In the first match of the day, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face Rajasthan Royals (RR) at their home ground Eden Gardens.

Before this match, great news has come for KKR. Sri Lankan fast bowler Mathisha Pathirana has finally recovered from injury and joined the team. KKR’s bowling lineup has become much stronger with the return of this star bowler worth Rs 18 crore after weeks of waiting.

Pathirana could not play in the first six matches due to injury. After getting No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Sri Lanka Cricket Board, he reached Kolkata. KKR also shared an exciting video to welcome him, in which his teammates gave him a warm welcome.

Current status of KKR

Kolkata Knight Riders have played 6 matches so far this season, in which 5 lost and one match was canceled due to rain. The biggest weakness of the team has been the death overs bowling. With the advent of Pathirana, this problem can be solved to a great extent. Now the question is whether the Sri Lankan pacer can make it to the playing eleven against Rajasthan Royals.

Pathirana’s IPL career

Mathisha Pathirana has played 32 matches in the IPL so far (all for Chennai Super Kings). During this period, he has taken 47 wickets, in which the average was 21.61 and the economy rate was 8.68. He is famous for his accurate yorker and slower ball.

Why is Baby called Malinga?

Pathirana is called the ‘Baby Malinga’ of Sri Lanka as his bowling action is very similar to that of former great Lasith Malinga. Like Malinga, Pathirana also troubles the batsmen with his lethal yorkers and unique round-arm action.

KKR fans are now hoping that Pathirana’s return will turn the team’s fortunes and KKR will be able to register their first win at Eden Gardens against Rajasthan Royals.