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Matheesha Pathirana's stellar ILT20 spell puts IPL franchises on alert ahead of mini-auction

Sakshi Sharma

Matheesha Pathirana (Source:@ashwinravi99,x.com)Matheesha Pathirana (Source:@ashwinravi99,x.com)

The Sharjah Warriorz produced a strong all-round performance to defeat the Gulf Giants by 11 runs at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Monday. The win, their second consecutive in the ILT20 Season 4, was powered by a brilliant bowling strike from Matheesha Pathirana.

The 22-year-old Sri Lankan pacer showed the same deadly skills that once made him a star in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Pathirana bowled a match-winning spell of 4 overs, giving away just 19 runs and taking three wickets. His precise off-cutter, sharp pace variation reminded fans why CSK had trusted him in crucial overs.

Pathirana's display comes at a crucial time, just before the IPL 2026 auction, and could significantly boost his value among franchises looking for a proven death-over specialist.

Pathirana’s IPL 2026 prospects

Franchises at the auction will likely take notice of his recent performance. His recent spell also highlighted his rhythm, confidence, and sharp execution. If Pathirana's body holds up, he could become a game-changer in the IPL, especially in death overs.

With his form peaking at the right time, the question now is whether Pathirana returns home for CSK or lands with another IPL franchise ready to invest in his upside.

Why CSK released Pathirana ahead of IPL 2026?

It is important to note that Pathirana was released by the Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026 due to injuries and fitness issues.

Hamstring injuries and limited game time led to a decline in IPL 2025, during which he leaked runs at an economy rate of 10.13 per over and lost his usual pace and accuracy. Last year, he played 12 matches and scalped 13 wickets.

Taking a look at his overall IPL stats, he played in 32 matches and bagged 47 wickets at an economy of 8.68.

Despite these setbacks, Pathirana has always been considered a rare talent. His return to form in the ILT20 states that he can still change matches, and with the mini-auction today, the ace pacer could be in the limelight.

After his IPL heroics, R Ashwin also tweeted, appreciating his performances and stating that he might join the 'Yellow Army' for the upcoming season.