New Delhi, May 16 -- In a heartbreaking twist during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, Matheesha Pathirana's much-awaited debut for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lasted only eight balls. The Sri Lankan speedster, who came in as an Impact Player against the Gujarat Titans (GT), showed early promise with sharp pace before a suspected hamstring injury cut short his evening at Eden Gardens. Fans who had been buzzing about Pathirana's arrival in KKR colours were left stunned as he walked off the field in visible discomfort.

Pathirana, known for his slingy action and death-over brilliance, was handed the ball in the middle overs. He immediately settled into a rhythm, hitting good speeds and troubling the Gujarat Titans batters...