Matheesha Pathirana set to join Kolkata Knight Riders by April 6 after rehab, fitness clearance awaited

Matheesha Pathirana has been rehabilitating at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Sri Lanka and will also undergo fitness tests.

Updated on: Mar 29, 2026, 06:19:38 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Matheesha Pathirana is set to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by April 6, according to reports. The Sri Lankan pacer has been signed by KKR for IPL 2026 for a massive sum of ₹18 crore. He is currently recovering from a calf injury sustained during the T20 World Cup.

Matheesha Pathirana is currently recovering from an injury. (AFP)

He has been rehabilitating at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Sri Lanka and will also undergo fitness tests. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has given permission for all franchise-bound players to undergo specific fitness assessments.

Also Read: In a big boost for Kolkata Knight Riders, Matheesha Pathirana declared fit to play in IPL 2026

Only after they complete the assessments, they will be issued a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to players to participate in leagues. Earlier, RCB star Nuwan Thusara didn't pass his fitness assessment. Meanwhile, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Dushmantha Chameera have passed their tests and joined their IPL teams.

What did KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar say?

During KKR's pre-season press conference, KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar said, "The latest update is that he is with the Sri Lankan cricket board for his rehab. Somewhere mid-April is when they feel he'll be match fit."

"Firstly, it is a big blow because Harshit has been an integral part of this team for the last couple of seasons, including the championship season. He has grown a lot as a cricketer over the years, so it's not easy to replace him.

"Having said that, over the last few days, we have looked at a few bowlers. We're trying to evaluate, with the help of the leadership group, who fits in and who can do that role to the best of their prowess. We haven't made the decision yet, but hopefully we will identify someone soon who can make a difference to this squad," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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