Kolkata, March 20 -- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Matheesha Pathirana is expected to miss the early stages of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, while Harshit Rana's availability in the tournament is also uncertain, according to ESPNcricinfo.

KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar has confirmed that Pathirana, who was snapped up for Rs 18 cr in the IPL auction, will be available only from mid-April. The Sri Lankan pacer, who missed the 2026 T20 World Cup with a calf strain, is currently undergoing rehabilitation under the supervision of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

Speaking at KKR's pre-season press conference, Abhishek Nayar stated that Pathirana is undergoing rehab with the Sri Lankan Cricket Board and is expected to be match fit ar...