Pathirana exits early with hamstring trouble as KKR suffer against GT in IPL 2026

Sri Lankan speedster Pathirana walked off during his second over for KKR after sensing hamstring discomfort in IPL 2026 against Gujarat Titans.

Impact Player debut ends early The Sri Lankan bowler entered the match as KKR's Impact Player, making his first appearance in the fourth over of the innings. In his initial spell, he conceded seven runs off six deliveries. However, during the second over, Pathirana signaled discomfort near his hamstring after bowling the first ball and collapsed to the ground. Team physiotherapists attended to him immediately as he attempted to resume bowling, but his second delivery lacked intensity, showing clear signs of holding back. ## Managerial call leads to exit Following a brief discussion with KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pathirana decided to leave the field after completing only two balls in his second over. This brought an abrupt end to his participation in the game against Gujarat Titans on the evening of Saturday, May 16 in 2026. ## IPL 2026 debut delayed by fitness concerns Pathirana’s arrival at KKR was highly anticipated after the franchise acquired him for INR 18 crore, roughly equivalent to US$ 1.875 million. His participation was postponed due to recurring fitness issues, including a calf muscle problem that kept him sidelined initially. The Sri Lanka Cricket board insisted on fitness clearance, requiring him to pass tests before granting a no-objection certificate. The certificate was finally issued only after KKR had played four matches in the tournament, all of which they lost. ## Long wait for match action Pathirana remained unused in the squad until KKR’s 12th game of the season, which took place on Saturday evening against Gujarat Titans. Despite finally getting playing time, his stay on the field lasted less than 30 minutes before he had to leave due to the hamstring issue. This added another setback to KKR’s season, which had already seen them lose their first four encounters.