Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have received a major boost ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as pacer Matheesha Pathirana has cleared his fitness test. The Sri Lankan bowler, purchased for ₹18 crore (approximately $2.2 million USD) in the IPL 2026 Auction, had been sidelined due to a left-leg injury sustained during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Although he has recovered and received a no-objection certificate from the Sri Lankan board, Pathirana will miss the upcoming match against CSK on April 14 and the game against Gujarat Titans on April 17. He is expected to be available for selection for the match against Rajasthan Royals on April 19. Pathirana's experience, particularly in death bowling, could be crucial for KKR, who have struggled with injuries among their main pacers. The team has had a rough start to the season, with only one point from four matches, including a six-wicket loss to Mumbai Indians and a 65-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad.