KKR Faces Major Blow: Rs 18 Crore Star Matheesha Pathirana Injured in T20 World Cup

• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) suffer a significant setback as INR 18 crore signing Matheesha Pathirana sustains a serious hamstring injury during the T20 World Cup.
• Pathirana, acquired for a hefty sum in the IPL 2026 auction, was injured in his first over against Australia, raising concerns for KKR's upcoming campaign.
• This injury adds to KKR's woes, as they previously lost Mustafizur Rahman due to a BCCI decision and are yet to find a replacement.
• Harshit Rana, a key bowler from KKR's 2024 title-winning squad, is also likely to miss IPL 2026 after knee surgery for a lateral meniscus injury.
• With multiple key pacers sidelined, KKR's fast bowling resources appear thin, especially concerning given the Eden Gardens pitch favors pacers.