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News India Live, Digital Desk: A very big and relief news has come out from the camp of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), which is running in great rhythm in IPL 2026. Sri Lanka’s deadly fast bowler and famous as ‘Junior Malinga’ Matheesha Pathirana All set to join his new team soon. Pathirana, who was included by KKR after spending a huge amount in the mega auction, was out of the first few matches due to his hamstring injury. But now official indications have been received on his fitness and availability.

Pathirana recovers from injury, Sri Lanka Cricket gives ‘clearance’

Mathisha Pathirana was undergoing rehabilitation process in Colombo for the last few weeks. According to the latest reports, the medical staff of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has reviewed his fitness and given him ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) to play in the IPL. Pathirana has started bowling with full speed at the nets and his accurate hitting of yorkers has brought a smile on the face of the KKR management.

When and in which match will Pathirana make his debut?

If sources are to be believed then Pathirana 9 April Will reach Kolkata by 30:00 and will be part of the team’s bio-bubble (if applicable) or practice session.

Possible matches: KKR’s next match is scheduled to be held on April 11. It is expected that Pathirana 11 or 14 April Can be a part of the playing XI in the match to be held on .

Paired with Mitchell Starc: KKR already has an experienced bowler like Mitchell Starc. With the arrival of Pathirana, KKR’s bowling in the death overs will become one of the most dangerous pairs in the world.

Why Pathirana is the ‘X-factor’ for KKR?

Pathirana’s unique slingy action (Malinga-like action) is very difficult for the batsmen to read. Especially on the Eden Gardens pitch, where there is little pace and bounce, Pathirana’s 145+ km/h yorkers can turn the match. While playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last season, he proved his usefulness in the death overs, and now he will play the role of ‘strike bowler’ in Gautam Gambhir’s strategy.

Shreyas Iyer and Gambhir’s strength increased

KKR is already in a strong position in the points table this season. Pathirana’s return will give captain Shreyas Iyer more options in bowling. At present, the ‘headache’ regarding the selection of foreign players in the team may increase because the places of Phil Salt, Sunil Narine and Mitchell Starc are almost certain. Pathirana’s entry as the fourth foreign player will give the team the balance that KKR was looking for for a long time.