Mathisha is set to miss the opening leg of Pathirana. IPL 2026, with the head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Abhishek Nair The Pacers are likely to be available as early as mid-April, confirming at a pre-season press conference on Friday. Pathirana, who was ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup due to a calf strain, is currently undergoing rehabilitation under the supervision of Sri Lanka Cricket. He featured in just three matches in the tournament before being dropped during the game against Australia.
Awaiting KKR fitness update.
Providing an update on the young fast bowler’s recovery, Nair said: “The latest update we know is that he is obviously with the Sri Lankan Cricket Board and they have worked on his rehabilitation, and the latest discussions we have had, hopefully mid-April when he feels he will be match fit. That is all we know so far.”
Sri Lanka Cricket has released the NOC update for IPL 2026.
The enemy was a chimera, Pathum Nissankaand Kamando MendesThose who have successfully completed their physical fitness tests have been issued NOCs to participate in the IPL. Nuvan Thishara’s No Object Certificate (NOC) eligibility to participate in the IPL will be subject to the results of his physical fitness test.Venindu Hasringa, Ishan Malinga, and Mathisha Pathirana, who have applied for NOCs to participate in IPL 2026, are yet to undergo physical fitness tests, as they are still undergoing rehabilitation to recover from injuries. The SLC said in a statement on Friday that the players concerned will undergo tests after completing their recovery and rehabilitation programmes.
“First of all, it’s a big blow” – Nayyar
Nair admitted that Harshit’s absence is a big blow for KKR.“First of all, it’s a big blow, because Harshit has been an integral part of this team for the last two seasons, including the Championship season. He has grown a lot as a cricketer over the years, so it’s not easy to replace him.”He added that the team management is actively exploring replacement options: “Having said that, in the last few days, we have seen a few bowlers. We are trying to assess with the help of the leadership group who fits and who can play the role to the best of their ability.”“We are still evaluating it and haven’t made a decision yet, but hopefully we will soon identify someone who can make a difference in this squad.”
Bravo backed the depth of the squad despite the setbacks.
KKR Patron Dwayne Bravo Said in a confident tone: “In any tournament with any team, once you lose some key bowling options, those are the things you plan for, but also those things you have to accept. The good thing about Indian cricket, especially at the moment, is that it has a lot of depth.”Bravo pointed to several Indian pacers who could step up: “So there are some guys, as the coach mentioned, that we’re definitely looking to fill that spot – like Imran Malik.”“These guys are also players who have represented the national team at some point and have played in the IPL before. They are young, exciting talents. So personally, I am happy to work with this group of fast bowlers.” He added.
