Is Matheesha Pathirana Out of IPL 2025? CSK Faces a Major Setback

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been hit with a massive blow in IPL 2025 as reports suggest that Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana could be ruled out of the tournament due to injury. This unexpected development raises concerns for the defending champions as they look to defend their title under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Why Was Matheesha Pathirana Missing from CSK’s Opening Game?

CSK began their IPL 2025 campaign with a thrilling four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on March 23. However, fans were left puzzled by Pathirana’s absence from the playing XI.

A discussion on the ‘Cheeky Cheeka’ YouTube channel hinted that the young speedster might be struggling with an injury. The anchor speculated that Pathirana had reverted to his old bowling action and suggested that he could be sidelined for the entire season.

"He went back to his old action. For CSK to retain a player for ₹13 crore and not pick him in the first game raises questions. One of the reports suggests that he might be injured and could even miss the season. However, nothing is confirmed until the franchise makes an official statement," the anchor said.

CSK’s Overseas Lineup Without Pathirana

With Pathirana absent, CSK opted for Australian pacer Nathan Ellis in their playing XI alongside overseas stars Noor Ahmad, Rachin Ravindra, and Sam Curran. Ellis had a tough outing, conceding 38 runs in four overs while picking up the wicket of Mitchell Santner.

Despite his absence, CSK’s bowling attack delivered, with left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed shining with figures of 3/29. Meanwhile, Noor Ahmad, CSK’s ₹10 crore signing, impressed with a match-winning spell of 4/18.

Matheesha Pathirana’s Impact for CSK in the IPL

Pathirana, who joined CSK as a mid-season replacement in IPL 2022, has since established himself as a lethal death-over specialist. Retained for ₹13 crore ahead of the mega auction, he has played 20 matches for the franchise, claiming 34 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.8.

His IPL 2024 campaign was cut short due to a hamstring injury, but he still managed to bag 19 wickets before being sidelined. Beyond the IPL, Pathirana has also left his mark in global T20 leagues such as the Lanka Premier League, International League T20, and SA20. In international cricket, he has taken 30 wickets in 19 T20Is and 17 wickets in 12 ODIs for Sri Lanka.

Will CSK Confirm Pathirana’s Injury?

As of now, CSK has not issued an official statement regarding Pathirana’s fitness. With the tournament still in its early stages, fans and experts will eagerly await an update on the young pacer’s availability.

If the injury rumors turn out to be true, CSK will need to quickly adjust their strategy to fill the void left by one of their most trusted death-over specialists.