Pathiranas debut ends early due to hamstring injury

Matheesha Pathirana’s much-anticipated debut for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026 did not last long. The Sri Lankan pace star had to leave the field after bowling just eight deliveries against Gujarat Titans.

Pathirana was introduced as an Impact Player during the second innings. The slinger conceded seven runs in his first over. However, after delivering the first ball of his second over, he felt discomfort in his hamstring area and went down on the field, requiring immediate medical attention.

After receiving treatment from the team physio, Pathirana attempted to bowl another delivery but was unable to operate at full pace. Following a brief conversation with captain Ajinkya Rahane, he walked off the field. His debut ultimately ended after bowling only two deliveries in his second over.

There had been huge expectations surrounding Pathirana’s debut for KKR. The franchise bought him for INR 18 crore at the IPL auction, but injuries kept him sidelined from the beginning of the season.

Pathirana had also struggled with fitness issues during the 2026 T20 World Cup. He left the field midway through his spell against Australia and was eventually ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.

Before joining the IPL, Pathirana also had to pass fitness tests for a calf injury in order to receive a no-objection certificate (NOC) from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Although he received clearance after KKR’s first four matches, he did not get a place in the playing XI immediately. Eventually, he made his debut in KKR’s 12th match of the season against Gujarat Titans, but it ended in disappointment.