This match-winning player worth Rs 18 crore is ready to make a splash in IPL 2026, now will the fate of lagging KKR change?

IPL 2026: The performance of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026 has been very disappointing so far. Out of the 4 matches played so far, they had to face defeat in three, while one match was lost due to rain. After three back to back defeats, KKR is now at the last position on the points table. However, amidst all this, a good news has emerged for KKR. Their 18 crore fast bowler is completely fit and the board has given him permission to play. In such a situation, it is believed that he will soon enter the field to reverse the bad fortunes of KKR.

This 18 crore match winning player is ready to make a splash

Actually, the player we are talking about is none other than Sri Lankan fast bowler Mathisha Pathirana. Let us tell you, Pathirana was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2026 for Rs 18 crore. However, due to injury, he was out of the first few matches of the season. Now this Sri Lankan bowler has passed the fitness test. According to a report by RevSportz, Pathirana has also received the No Objection Certificate from the Sri Lanka Cricket Board, so it is believed that he will soon join KKR.

🚨 GREAT NEWS FOR KKR. 🚨

– Matheesha Pathirana has received his NOC, he’s set to join KKR soon. (Revsportz). pic.twitter.com/a1amkYZP44

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 12, 2026

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When will Pathirana join the team?

However, it is not yet clear when Mathisha Pathirana will join the KKR team. But many reports are claiming that he will be available in the match against Chennai. Kolkata Knight Riders have to play their next match against Chennai Super Kings on 14th April, Pathirana can be seen playing in this match.

IPL career was like this

Talking about the IPL career of 23-year-old Mathisha Pathirana, he made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings in 2022. He has played a total of 32 matches so far in this tournament, in which he has taken 47 wickets. In IPL 2023, he played an important role in helping Chennai win the title. Now he is a part of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026.