Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana is set to begin a new chapter in the IPL after being snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹18 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. The 23-year-old pacer, released by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last month, drew significant interest but saw his former franchise stay out of the bidding altogether on auction day.

Soon after sealing the move, Pathirana shared an emotional farewell message for CSK on Instagram, reflecting on his journey with the franchise that shaped his early IPL career. Thanking MS Dhoni, the management and fans, the Sri Lankan speedster described his time in yellow as transformative, both professionally and personally.

“From a boy with a dream to wearing yellow with pride, CSK gave me belief, confidence and a family I will always cherish,” Pathirana wrote. He revealed that he had hoped to end his CSK stint by reaching 50 wickets for the franchise, a milestone he narrowly missed. Despite that, he stressed that every effort came “from the heart”.

Pathirana paid special tribute to Dhoni for his guidance, while also acknowledging the support of the CSK management, teammates and loyal fans. “Chennai will always feel like home, and yellow will always have a special place in my heart,” he added, before turning his focus to the future with KKR.

The Sri Lankan pacer made his IPL debut in 2022 and enjoyed a breakout season in 2023, claiming 19 wickets in 12 matches and playing a key role in CSK’s title-winning campaign. He followed that up with 13 wickets in six matches in 2024, but a subdued 2025 season led to his release ahead of the 2026 auction.

Now armed with a fresh start and a big-ticket deal, Pathirana will look to rediscover his lethal best in KKR colors as he scripts the next phase of his IPL journey.