In a dramatic IPL 2026 mini-auction at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena, Kolkata Knight Riders secured Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana for ₹18 crore, making him the most expensive Sri Lankan player in IPL history. The bidding war saw Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals challenge fiercely before KKR sealed the deal.
The IPL 2026 auction delivered yet another headline-grabbing moment as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) invested heavily in Sri Lanka’s rising fast-bowling sensation, Matheesha Pathirana. Known for his lethal death-overs bowling and slingy action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, Pathirana’s acquisition reflects KKR’s aggressive strategy to strengthen their pace attack.
Key Highlights:
Historic Price Tag: Pathirana sold for ₹18 crore, the maximum cap for overseas players under new IPL rules.
Fierce Bidding Battle: Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals pushed the price past ₹14 crore before KKR entered at ₹16 crore.
Strategic Move: KKR, with a purse of ₹64.30 crore, showcased financial muscle by also landing Cameron Green for ₹25.20 crore.
Record Achievement: Pathirana becomes the most expensive Sri Lankan player in IPL auction history, highlighting his growing reputation.
Auction Context: This was the first mini-auction after the mega auction of 2024, with 369 players under the hammer.
KKR’s bold spending signals their intent to dominate IPL 2026, combining international firepower with strategic depth. Pathirana’s role as a death-overs specialist could prove pivotal in their campaign.
Sources: Zee News, News18, Business Upturn, Sportstar, India Today