Sri Lanka’s sling-action sensation Matheesha Pathirana, popularly known as Baby Malinga, became one of the most expensive fast bowlers in the IPL 2026 auction. After three impactful seasons with Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana has now been acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a massive ₹18 crore, marking one of the biggest bowling signings of the season.
KKR needed a genuine death-overs specialist, and Pathirana’s unique action, yorker accuracy and wicket-taking ability made him the most attractive pace option in the mini auction.
Matheesha Pathirana IPL 2026 – Team & Auction Price
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Team | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| IPL 2026 Auction Price | ₹18 Crore |
| Role | Fast Bowler |
| Specialization | Death-Overs Yorkers, Sling Action |
| IPL Debut | 2022 |
| Nationality | Sri Lanka |
Pathirana joins KKR as their lead strike bowler, expected to bowl in powerplay and dominate in death overs.
Know Also: Who is the Owner of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Team in IPL 2026?
Matheesha Pathirana IPL Career Overview
Since his debut in 2022, Pathirana has become one of the most exciting fast bowlers in the league. His sling action, toe-crushing yorkers and high pace have troubled even the best batters in the world.
Pathirana IPL Summary
- Matches: 32
- Wickets: 47
- Best Bowling: 4/28
- Economy: 8.68
- Avg: 21.62
- One of the most effective bowlers at the death
- Known for dismissing top-order batters early with his angle and pace
Matheesha Pathirana – Full Profile
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matheesha Pathirana |
| Date of Birth | 18 December 2002 |
| Born In | Kandy, Sri Lanka |
| Role | Bowler |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-Arm Fast, Sling Action |
| IPL Debut | 2022 |
| IPL 2026 Team | KKR |
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹18 crore |
Matheesha Pathirana IPL Bowling Stats (Season-Wise)
| Season | Matches | Wickets | Best | Avg | Econ | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 12 | 13 | 3/36 | 32.62 | 10.14 | 19.31 |
| 2024 | 6 | 13 | 4/28 | 13.00 | 7.68 | 10.15 |
| 2023 | 12 | 19 | 3/15 | 19.53 | 8.01 | 14.63 |
| 2022 | 2 | 2 | 2/24 | 26.00 | 7.61 | 20.50 |
| Career | 32 | 47 | 4/28 | 21.62 | 8.68 | 14.94 |
Matheesha Pathirana IPL Batting & Fielding Stats
(Batting rarely used)
| Season | Runs | HS | Avg | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 0 | – | 3 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 | – | 1 |
| 2023 | 0 | 0 | – | 4 |
| 2022 | 0 | 0 | – | 1 |
| Career | 0 | 0 | – | 9 |
Matheesha Pathirana IPL Auction Price History
| Year | Price | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ₹20 lakh | CSK |
| 2024 | ₹20 lakh | CSK |
| 2025 | ₹13 crore | CSK |
| 2026 | ₹18 crore | KKR |
This reflects his rapid rise from an uncapped pacer to one of the most sought-after bowlers in the league.
Why KKR Invested ₹18 Crore in Pathirana
KKR needed a high-impact bowler who could finish games with the ball. Pathirana fits perfectly because:
1. Death Overs Specialist
Few bowlers match his yorker accuracy at the death.
2. Slinging Action – Hard to Read
His release point is unorthodox, making him dangerous for hitters.
3. Wicket-Taker Under Pressure
Regularly dismisses set batters in crunch moments.
4. Perfect for Eden Gardens Pitch
KKR’s home ground supports pace and bounce, amplifying his strengths.
See Also:- Most Successful IPL Captains (2008–2025)
Matheesha Pathirana’s Growth Story
Pathirana earned the nickname Baby Malinga early in his career due to similarities with Lasith Malinga’s sling arm. His journey:
- Rose through Sri Lanka U-19
- Gained global attention with a viral 175 kmph misrecorded ball
- Picked as an injury replacement for CSK
- Dismissed Shubman Gill with his first-ever IPL delivery
- Developed into a reliable death bowler
His raw pace, fearless attitude and ability to deliver yorkers under pressure make him one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in world cricket.
Conclusion
Matheesha Pathirana’s move to KKR for ₹18 crore in IPL 2026 signals his rise to the top tier of T20 fast bowling. With 47 wickets in just 32 matches, he arrives as a ready-made strike bowler who can change matches single-handedly.
