IPL 2026: CSK to release Matheesha Pathirana ahead of auction

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IPL 2026: CSK to release Matheesha Pathirana ahead of auction

By Gaurav Tripathi

Nov 15, 2025 01:03 pm

What's the story

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have decided to part ways with Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as per ESPNcricinfo. The decision comes after much deliberation over his future with the franchise. CSK had acquired Pathirana ahead of IPL 2023 and retained him before the 2025 mega auction for a whopping ₹13 crore.

Career highlights

Pathirana's IPL journey and injury struggles

Pathirana made a name for himself in IPL 2023, helping CSK clinch the title. He took 19 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of 8.01. However, former captain MS Dhoni had cautioned that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) would have to manage Pathirana carefully to ensure a long career. Unfortunately, the bowler has struggled with injuries over time, hampering his performance on multiple occasions.

Performance dip

Pathirana's recent performances and CSK's concerns

Pathirana last played in the Asia Cup this September. His IPL 2024 season was cut short due to a hamstring injury, and he left mid-way through SA20, where he plays for Joburg Super Kings. In IPL 2025, his performance was below par as he took only 13 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of 10.13. CSK's head coach Stephen Fleming had expressed concerns over Pathirana's drop in impact during the season.

Auction approach

CSK's future plans and auction strategy

Despite releasing Pathirana, CSK may consider re-acquiring him at the auction scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. The franchise is also among the few teams heading into the auction with a hefty budget. This is because they have decided to release several players, including New Zealand's Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. Additionally, they have traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Sanju Samson.

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