CSK’s Matheesha Pathirana Returns to Sri Lanka Due to Hamstring Injury

In a setback for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their pivotal death-bowling asset, Matheesha Pathirana, has been forced to return to Sri Lanka for rehabilitation following a hamstring injury. Pathirana’s absence exacerbates CSK’s bowling concerns, with the team already grappling with the unavailability of Deepak Chahar, their powerplay specialist.

Pathirana’s injury sidelined him for the recent home encounter against Punjab Kings in Chennai and subsequently ruled him out of the return fixture in Dharamsala. This double blow leaves CSK in a precarious position, as they navigate the rigors of IPL 2024 without two key bowling assets.

Having featured in only six matches during IPL 2024, Pathirana made a notable impact, clinching 13 wickets with an economy rate of 7.68. However, his campaign was marred by recurrent hamstring troubles, initially suffered during a match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Sylhet in March.

Pathirana’s departure compounds Sri Lanka’s woes in the IPL, with fellow fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka also sidelined due to injury. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s premier legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga opted out of IPL 2024 due to chronic heel pain in his left foot.

With Pathirana’s untimely exit, CSK’s bowling lineup faces further strain, relying heavily on the services of aging overseas pacer Richard Gleeson. Moreover, the departure of Mustafizur Rahman and the absence of Deepak Chahar leave the squad grappling with limited bowling options.

As CSK navigates through the challenges of IPL 2024, the absence of Pathirana underscores the team’s need for swift recovery and strategic reinforcements in their bowling department. With crucial fixtures looming ahead, CSK’s quest for success hinges on effectively addressing their bowling woes amidst mounting injury concerns.