KKR Shatter Records for Matheesha Pathirana, Pacer Becomes IPL's Most Expensive Sri Lankan Player at ₹18 Crore
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) continued their aggressive spending spree at the IPL 2026 mini-auction by acquiring Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana for a staggering ₹18 crore. This monumental purchase not only made Pathirana the second most expensive player of the auction but also established him as the highest-priced Sri Lankan cricketer in IPL history, eclipsing the previous record held by Wanindu Hasaranga.
KKR's decisive move to secure the 23-year-old pacer, known for his unique low-arm action and exceptional death-over yorkers, underscores the franchise's commitment to addressing their historical bowling weaknesses. Pathirana, who was released by Chennai Super Kings earlier this year, brings a proven track record of 47 wickets from 32 IPL matches. His addition is expected to provide KKR with a reliable overseas death bowler, complementing their youthful core of impact players.
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“This blockbuster acquisition solidified KKR's position as the auction’s biggest spenders and means they have secured the top two most expensive buys of the day - a decisive display of financial might and strategic intent.”
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- Matheesha Pathirana
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- Bowler
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Related Statistics
Most Wickets at MA Chidambaram Stadium
Bowling specialists with most career wickets taken at MA Chidambaram Stadium (bowlers/all-rounders only)
| Select | Rank | Player | Team | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Rajasthan Royals | 37 wickets | ||
#2 | Mumbai Indians | 24 wickets | ||
#3 | Rajasthan Royals | 21 wickets | ||
| #4 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 20 wickets | ||
| #5 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 15 wickets |
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“This blockbuster acquisition solidified KKR's position as the auction’s biggest spenders and means they have secured the top two most expensive buys of the day - a decisive display of financial might and strategic intent.”
Unnamed analysis from source
- Player
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Specialization
- Bowler
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance