Matheesha Pathirana’s IPL 2026 Auction: AI predicts team and final bid price

Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set to be one of the major names in the IPL 2026 mini-auction after being released by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The right-arm pacer was retained by CSK ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction for INR 13 crore, but was surprisingly released this time.

Pathirana has been part of the IPL since 2022, representing the five-time champions in all four seasons. In 32 appearances, he has taken 47 wickets at an average of 21.61. His performance dipped in the previous season, where he played 12 matches, often as the Impact Player, taking only 13 wickets with an economy rate exceeding 10.

Despite this, he has delivered match-winning performances in several crucial games, making him a valuable asset. CSK’s decision to release him comes after consistently backing him in consecutive seasons. While his overall performance has been average, his ability to turn games around in key moments keeps him in demand.

AI Predicts Matheesha Pathirana’s IPL 2026 Team and Final Bid Price

According to AI, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are the frontrunners for Pathirana. With the largest available purse of INR 64.30 crore and a clear need for a specialist death-overs bowler, KKR have the financial strength to aggressively outbid other franchises, potentially securing Pathirana at the high end of his estimated value.

CSK could also attempt to reacquire him at a lower price than the INR 13 crore retention, as their primary focus will now be on all-rounders following the trades of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Their constrained budget means they may aim to sign Pathirana for under INR 10 crore.

Other franchises, including Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, are also likely to show interest. DC, with Mitchell Starc, could benefit from adding a young overseas pacer to their attack, while LSG, relying mainly on young Indian pacers, would gain experience and overseas support through Pathirana. His addition could play a decisive role in shaping the pace attacks of these teams in IPL 2026.

Disclaimer: The predictions in this article are based on AI analysis and are purely speculative. They are for entertainment and informational purposes only. The predicted team and bid price for David Miller in IPL 2026 may not reflect actual outcomes, and CricTracker is not responsible for any discrepancies.