News India Live, Digital Desk: Before the start of IPL 2026, the stir in the camp of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has intensified. Suspense remains regarding the fitness of the team’s most expensive foreign bowler Matheesha Pathirana. The Sri Lankan star, who was injured during the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026, is now completely dependent on the fitness clearance to play in the initial matches of IPL. Why is Pathirana’s case stuck? In the auction held in December, KKR had included Pathirana in its team by paying a huge amount of ₹ 18 crores. But this injury report that came just before the start of the tournament has given sleepless nights to the franchise: Injury during the World Cup: Pathirana suffered a calf strain during the match against Australia, after which he was ruled out of the World Cup. Rehab has done the right thing: Currently, he is rehabbing with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). He has clarified on social media that he has not reached India yet. Medical team’s view: According to the report, Pathirana is yet to get the green signal from the BCCI and the Medical Board of Sri Lanka Cricket to enter the field. Clouds of crisis on KKR’s ‘pace battery’ Pathirana’s injury is a double blow for KKR as the team has limited options for foreign fast bowlers: Mustafizur’s departure: Following the instructions of the board, KKR have already Mustafizur Rahman has been released. Harshit Rana’s recovery: Indian pacer Harshit Rana has also recently recovered from surgery and his match fitness is also being monitored. What does the update say? Pathirana appealed to his fans to remain calm and shared a photo, in which he is seen wearing recovery devices. He now has very little time left for the IPL season starting from March 28. If he is not fit in time, KKR may have to look towards the replacement pool.