Tag: Matheesha Pathirana

  • IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    As soon as the IPL retention window closed, all eyes shifted towards the upcoming IPL 2026 Mini Auction. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), owned by Shah Rukh Khan, are entering the auction with the highest purse value, giving them the opportunity to rebuild their squad after a disappointing last season. With a strong intent to revamp the bowling unit, the franchise has reportedly shortlisted a few top-quality bowlers ahead of the auction.

    The 2025 IPL season turned out to be a nightmare for KKR. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the team lost several easy matches and ended the league stage in eighth place. For a three-time champion, such a season was extremely hard to digest. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, the management is now focused on strengthening the bowling department for IPL 2026.

    1. Matheesha Pathirana – Released by CSK, Now on KKR’s Radar

    According to sources, Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is one of KKR’s top targets. After not being retained by CSK, the young yorker specialist is expected to attract heavy bidding in the auction. His accuracy, raw pace, and deadly death-over bowling could bring a new dimension to the KKR pace attack.

    2. Ravi Bishnoi – The Middle-Overs Wicket-Getter KKR Wants

    Another name strongly linked to KKR is Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was surprisingly released from Sanjiv Goenka’s Lucknow franchise. Known for his consistent wicket-taking ability in the middle overs and deceptive googlies, Bishnoi is expected to be one of the hottest picks in the mini auction. KKR may even consider building their spin attack around him.

    3. Reece Topley – The Left-Arm Pacer to Replace Spencer Johnson?

    On November 15, KKR released left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, creating a vacancy in the squad. To fill that gap, the franchise is eyeing England’s experienced all-rounder Reece Topley. Despite occasional injury concerns, Topley’s swing, bounce, and death-overs control make him an ideal fit for the team. His skill set could bring much-needed balance to KKR’s bowling lineup.

    Ahead of the mini auction, speculation is growing around these three bowlers—Matheesha Pathirana, Ravi Bishnoi, and Reece Topley. Determined to bounce back after last season’s struggles, Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla’s franchise are gearing up to rebuild a stronger, more balanced KKR squad.

  • 5 Possible Targets for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2026 Auction

    5 Possible Targets for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2026 Auction

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have released seven players and traded Shardul Thakur to the Mumbai Indians. The auction will take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, and LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka will enter the event with a purse of Rs 22.95 crore. The franchise’s primary objective will be strengthening its bowling attack, with a strong focus on experienced overseas fast bowlers. Here’s a look at five possible targets for LSG in the IPL 2026 auction.

    Like most IPL teams, LSG will also keep a close eye on Sri Lanka’s young pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana. After four successful seasons with Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana has earned a reputation as one of the most lethal death-over bowlers in the IPL. He has taken 47 wickets in 32 matches so far and is known for his pinpoint yorkers. His death-over expertise could be a massive asset for LSG.

    2. Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh)

    Bangladesh’s “Cutter Master” Mustafizur Rahman is another strong overseas option for LSG. Currently the third-highest wicket-taker in T20Is, Mustafizur has previously represented SRH, MI, RR, CSK, and DC in the IPL. With his variations, experience, and proven ability in pressure situations, Mustafizur could significantly strengthen LSG’s death-over bowling.

    3. Matt Henry (New Zealand)

    New Zealand pacer Matt Henry is also expected to be on LSG’s radar. Over the past few years, Henry has been consistently impressive across all formats of international cricket. He played four matches for LSG in IPL 2024, and his ability to swing the new ball makes him a valuable powerplay bowler. His experience and control can add much-needed balance to LSG’s pace unit.

    4. Gus Atkinson (England)

    England’s rising fast bowler Gus Atkinson is another promising target for LSG. He has quickly established himself as a key pacer in England’s Test setup. Although he is yet to make his IPL debut, his pace, bounce, and lower-order batting ability make him an attractive option for the franchise. LSG might look to invest in him as a long-term asset.

    5. Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)

    Among overseas all-rounders, Sri Lankan leg-spinner and former captain Wanindu Hasaranga stands out as a major potential target. Known for his match-winning spells in the middle overs and his quick-scoring ability with the bat, Hasaranga brings tremendous value to any T20 side. His all-round skills and experience make him a perfect fit for LSG’s strategy to control the middle phase of the innings.

  • IPL 2026 : Possible Trade Deal Between CSK and Rajasthan Royals

    IPL 2026 : Possible Trade Deal Between CSK and Rajasthan Royals

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, the excitement around player trades is at its peak. By November 15, every franchise must submit its list of retained and released players. Even before those lists are out, intense discussions have begun between teams over player swaps — and at the center of all the drama is Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson.

    সঞ্জুকে চেন্নাই নিলে, ‘জাদ্দুর’ সঙ্গে এই তারকা পেসারকে চাইছে রাজস্থান!

    Chennai Super Kings Keen on Signing Sanju

    According to reports, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been in serious talks with Rajasthan Royals to acquire Sanju Samson. Rajasthan, too, is reportedly open to releasing their skipper — but with one major condition: CSK must trade both Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in return.

    Sources suggest that CSK initially showed interest in this deal but later clarified that no move would be made without Jadeja’s consent, as the all-rounder remains a vital part of their setup.

    Rajasthan’s New Demand: Not Curran, But Pathirana!

    The situation has since changed dramatically. Latest reports indicate that Rajasthan Royals have modified their offer, now demanding Sri Lankan pacer Matheesa Pathirana along with Jadeja, instead of Sam Curran.

    However, Chennai is reluctant to accept this condition. After internal discussions between captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, coach Stephen Fleming, and mentor MS Dhoni, CSK has made it clear: “We can talk about Jadeja, but Pathirana — our future star — is absolutely untouchable.”

    Delhi Capitals Were Also in the Race

    Earlier, Delhi Capitals had also shown interest in Sanju Samson. They reportedly offered Tristan Stubbs to Rajasthan, but the Royals demanded young Indian batter Sameer Rizvi as well. Delhi refused, and the deal fell through.

    At present, Rajasthan and Chennai remain the only two teams actively discussing a potential Sanju Samson trade.

    It’s worth noting that Ravindra Jadeja began his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals, even winning the inaugural season with them. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson has spent over 11 years with Rajasthan, leading the team in recent seasons. After the previous IPL season, Sanju had hinted that “it might be time for a change.”

    Now, with Rajasthan unwilling to compromise on their new demand and Chennai refusing to give up Pathirana, Sanju’s future remains uncertain. All eyes are on November 15, when the retention lists will finally reveal whether Sanju stays with Rajasthan or dons yellow for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026.