IPL 2026: LSG set to move on from Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana closing in on KKR return

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has thrown up contrasting updates regarding two Sri Lankan cricketers, Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana, both of whom were picked up for significant sums in the auction.

Hasaranga, acquired by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for INR 2 crore, has yet to report to the franchise. More worryingly, he has not provided clarity on when he might arrive. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has mandated fitness tests before issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for IPL participation, and Hasaranga has not completed his assessment.

According to Cricbuzz, he was seen batting at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo recently, he did not bowl, raising doubts about his readiness. The leg-spinner has been sidelined for nearly two months with a hamstring tear sustained during Sri Lanka’s opening T20 World Cup match against Ireland on February 8.

Given the lack of communication and fitness concerns, LSG may consider alternatives. Options such as Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi, Liam Dawson, and Rehan Ahmed, all part of the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP), are being evaluated as potential replacements. This situation also ties into broader franchise concerns, as the IPL introduced sanctions in 2024 after complaints about overseas players withdrawing post-auction.

In contrast, Pathirana’s situation is more encouraging. Bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a hefty INR 18 crore, Pathirana has begun bowling in the nets, albeit not at full intensity. His progress has reassured KKR, who remain confident he will feature this season. The young pacer was also spotted training at the Premadasa Stadium, signaling recovery and gradual return to match fitness. Given his reputation as a death-over specialist, his availability could significantly bolster KKR’s campaign.

Speaking about both franchise’s campaigns, LSG lost their opening game against Delhi Capitals (DC) but bounced back in a thrilling fashion against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) winning the game with one ball to spare. Meanwhile, KKR lost their first two games in the IPL 2026 against Mumbai Indians (MI) and SRH, respectively. LSG and KKR are set to take on each other on Thursday, April 9 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.