IPL Auction 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a bold move at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, snapping up Sri Lanka speedster Matheesha Pathirana for a staggering price of Rs 18 crore, making him the second-highest bidder in the ongoing auction.
The bidding for speedster turned frenetic quickly, with Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) going head-to-head in a fierce battle. Starting at Rs 2 crore, the price skyrocketed past Rs 5 crore in a flash, with bids increasing by Rs 20 lakh each time.
The price eventually skyrocketed past Rs 10 crore and then to Rs 15 crore.
After a tense pause, DC pulled out at Rs 15.80 crore, making the way for KKK's entrance at Rs 16 crore. The Kolkata franchise released its financial strength, and LSG eventually folded at Rs 18 crore.
Pathirana, the sling-armed pacer, had been crucial in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) 2023 title victory, claiming 19 wickets at an economy of 8.
Despite being retained for Rs 13 crore, his 2025 campaign was underwhelming, snapping only 13 wickets at an economy of 10.13. Injury concerns led to his release from CSK, paving the way for KKR's Rs 18 crore windfall.