Matheesha Pathirana Joins KKR for ₹18 Crore at IPL 2026 Auction
Venkatesh Iyer joins RCB for ₹7 crore at IPL 2026 mini-auction after KKR pull out following an intense bidding war.
Matheesha Pathirana will play for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2026 season after being snapped up for ₹18 crore at the mini-auction held on December 16, 2025.
The Sri Lankan fast bowler was released by Chennai Super Kings ahead of the auction, a move that surprised many given his impact in recent seasons. He entered the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore but did not stay at that mark for long.
Bidding for Pathirana started with the Delhi Capitals, who showed early intent by making the opening bid. Lucknow Super Giants soon joined the contest, and the price climbed quickly as both teams pushed hard for the young pacer.
The battle between DC and LSG drove the amount beyond ₹15 crore, underlining how highly teams rate Pathirana’s pace, yorkers, and death-overs skill. Delhi eventually pulled out, leaving LSG in the lead at that stage.
Kolkata Knight Riders then made their move late in the bidding. KKR entered at ₹16 crore and went head-to-head with LSG in the final stretch. After a short duel, KKR landed the final bid at ₹18 crore to seal the deal.
Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana’s former franchise, stayed out of the bidding despite having worked closely with him in previous seasons. Their decision not to re-enter allowed KKR to secure one of the most sought-after fast bowlers in the auction.
For KKR, the signing adds raw pace and a strong death-overs option to their bowling attack. Pathirana’s slingy action and ability to bowl wide yorkers have often troubled top batters, making him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.
The move also marks a fresh chapter for Pathirana, who will now look to make an impact in new colours. At just 22, he already has big-match experience and will be expected to play a key role in KKR’s plans for IPL 2026.
Matheesha Pathirana IPL 2026 Auction FAQ
Which team bought Matheesha Pathirana in IPL 2026 Auction?
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bought Matheesha Pathirana in the IPL 2026 auction.
What is Matheesha Pathirana’s price in IPL 2026 auction?
Matheesha Pathirana was sold for ₹18 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
What is Matheesha Pathirana’s base price in IPL 2026 auction?
Pathirana entered the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of ₹2 crore.
Which teams bid for Matheesha Pathirana in IPL 2026 auction?
Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants were involved in a bidding war for Pathirana. Kolkata Knight Riders joined late and won the bid, while Chennai Super Kings did not take part.
