Matheesha Pathirana’s manager confirmed his fitness ahead of CSK’s IPL 2024 opener, boosting hopes for his swift return to the team’s bowling attack.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana’s availability for the IPL season was confirmed by his manager. While initial reports suggested Pathirana would miss the opening matches due to a hamstring injury, his manager shared a more optimistic outlook.
Pathirana sustained the injury during Sri Lanka’s second T20I against Bangladesh on March 6th. Early reports indicated a grade-one hamstring strain, potentially sidelining him for the first two weeks of the IPL.
However, Pathirana’s manager, Amila Kalugalage, took to social media on Friday to announce that the young pacer is fit and ready. “The answer to ‘Where’s Pathirana’ He is fit and ready to throw thunder balls. Be ready,” read the post on X.
While Kalugalage’s statement is encouraging, it’s important to note that Pathirana is still undergoing rehabilitation with Sri Lanka Cricket’s physiotherapist. He has not yet joined the CSK camp and will require clearance from the physio before doing so. This may still result in him missing the opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
However, Pathirana’s potential return would be a significant boost for CSK. He emerged as a key player for the team in the 2023 season, especially during the crucial death overs. His tally of 19 wickets in 12 matches, with an average of 19.52 and an economy rate of 8.01, solidified his role as the team’s third-highest wicket-taker.
Whether Pathirana will be available for the opening match remains to be seen, but his manager’s update provides hope for a swifter return to the CSK bowling attack. The highly anticipated IPL season kicks off on March 22nd, with CSK facing a revamped RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Last Updated on March 22, 2024
