IPL 2026 Auction: 3 teams that could start a bidding war for Matheesha Pathirana

Published - 22 Nov 2025, 09:58 IST | Updated - 22 Nov 2025, 10:12 IST

Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set to be one of the hot picks at the IPL 2026 auction after being released ahead of the season. The young quick couldn’t replicate his earlier success in 2025 as he returned from injury, picking 13 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 10.13. Despite an underwhelming year, his overall IPL numbers of 47 wickets in 32 games at an economy of 8.68 make him a valuable addition.

Known for his slingy action, bounce, and ability to bowl fast at the death, Pathirana’s breakout 2023 season made him a specialist in pressure situations. With franchises constantly searching for reliable bowling options, his skill set makes him a premium pick.

Lucknow Super Giants, who will enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction with INR 22.95 crore, look to strengthen their depleted pace attack, and Matheesha Pathirana has been one of their top overseas targets. LSG struggled last season with multiple injuries to their Indian fast bowlers, and despite trading in Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar, the team still lacks a specialist overseas pacer.

With Will O’Rourke and Shamar Joseph released, the franchise is now eyeing Pathirana as the ideal solution. Pathirana will be a perfect complement to Shami. His addition would bring the bowling balance LSG missed throughout the previous campaign.