Yet another update has come on Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana’s chances of participating in the IPL 2026, for KKR. During the pre-season press conference on Friday, head coach Abhishek Nayar revealed that the bowler would only be available from mid-April, and is all set to miss a few games.

Abhishek Nayar gives a major update

Pathirana had injured his calf during the T20 World Cup 2026, and had played three matches only. “The latest update is that he is with the Sri Lankan cricket board for his rehab,” Nayar said during KKR’s pre-season press conference. “Somewhere mid-April is when they feel he’ll be match fit.”

This has come after, the SLC made it clear, that in order to play the IPL 2026, the players will have to undergo fitness tests, in order to obtain the NOC. As per Cricbuzz, the SLC will hold fitness tests for some of the players early next week, before handing out NOCs for IPL 2026. All the above mentioned players are expected to undergo fitness tests. “There are fitness tests scheduled by SLC on Monday and Tuesday and we will know about their players only after that,” said officials of multiple IPL franchises.

Matheesha Pathirana to join KKR mid-April

On the other hand, Nayar also conceded, that they haven’t found a replacement for Harshit Rana, which would be quite difficult. “Firstly, it is a big blow,” Nayar said, “because Harshit has been an integral part of this team for the last couple of seasons, including the championship season. He has grown a lot as a cricketer over the years, so it’s not easy to replace him.

“Having said that, over the last few days, we have looked at a few bowlers. We’re trying to evaluate, with the help of the leadership group, who fits in and who can do that role to the best of their prowess. We haven’t made the decision yet, but hopefully we will identify someone soon who can make a difference to this squad.”