Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are facing more problems in IPL 2026. Their bowling unit has struggled in the early matches. Now, the delay in Matheesha Pathirana’s arrival has added to their worries. The Sri Lankan fast bowler is yet to get fitness clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket.
Pathirana cannot join KKR until he completes the required fitness tests. These tests are needed to receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for playing in overseas leagues. He is still recovering from a calf injury. The injury happened during the T20 World Cup. Although he has started bowling in the nets, he has not reached full match fitness yet.
KKR Face Setback as Pathirana’s Arrival Delayed Amid Fitness Concerns
Reports suggest that Pathirana may take his fitness test soon. If he passes, he could join the KKR squad by mid-April. However, there is no official update yet. The franchise remains hopeful that he will be available later in the season.
KKR had bought Pathirana for a big amount in the IPL 2026 auction. He was expected to lead their pace attack. His absence has left a big gap in the bowling lineup. The team is already dealing with injuries to Indian fast bowlers. Also, Mustafizur Rahman is not part of the squad anymore.
The current bowling attack has not performed well. Bowlers like Blessing Muzarabani and Vaibhav Arora have struggled under pressure. KKR failed to defend a total of more than 200 runs against Mumbai Indians. In another match, they conceded over 220 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The spin department has also not been very effective. Varun Chakravarthy has been expensive in key matches. A rain-hit match against Punjab Kings gave KKR their first point. But it did not solve their bowling problems.
There is some positive news for KKR fans. Pathirana has resumed light bowling sessions. He was recently seen practicing at the Premadasa Stadium. However, he is not bowling at full speed yet.
KKR will hope he clears all tests soon. His return could strengthen the bowling unit. Until then, the team must find solutions with the available players.
ALSO READ Jos Buttler backs himself to bounce back despite slow start in IPL 2026
