The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made a strategic move, releasing Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana from their squad ahead of the 2026 IPL season. This decision comes after Pathirana’s recent struggles with injuries and a decline in performance. ESPNcricinfo’s Nagraj Gollapudi reports that CSK had been contemplating their future with Pathirana, who they acquired for a substantial amount of INR 13 crore before the 2025 mega auction. Despite his impressive 2023 performance, where he claimed 19 wickets at an economy of 8.01, Pathirana’s career has been marred by injuries. The 2024 IPL season was cut short due to a hamstring injury, and he later departed from the SA20 mid-season. CSK’s head coach, Stephen Fleming, expressed concerns about Pathirana’s performance drop, attributing it to potential adjustments in his release point by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). With a possibility of re-acquiring Pathirana at the auction, CSK’s decision to release him is a calculated move, as they also let go of players like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. This strategic release allows CSK to enter the auction with a substantial budget, aiming to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.