In the world of cricket, few players have grabbed the attention of fans like Matheesha Pathirana. This 22-year-old Sri Lankan fast bowler, famous for his unique slingy bowling action, has become a big name for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With his killer yorkers and coolness under pressure, Pathirana has earned the nickname “Baby Malinga” because he bowls a bit like the legendary Lasith Malinga. As CSK gets ready for another exciting season in IPL 2025, let’s dive into Pathirana’s story, his role in the team, and why he’s such a special player.
Who is Matheesha Pathirana?
Matheesha Pathirana is a young fast bowler from Sri Lanka, born on December 18, 2002. He first came into the limelight during the Under-19 World Cup in 2020, where his strange bowling action and raw speed caught everyone’s eye. His action is almost side-arm, much like Lasith Malinga, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest bowlers. This odd style makes it tough for batsmen to read his deliveries, especially his yorkers and bouncers.
Pathirana made his IPL debut in 2022 with CSK and soon became a crowd favourite. His knack for bowling in the death overs—when the game gets really tense—has made him a key player for the team. In IPL 2024, he was one of CSK’s top wicket-takers, but a hamstring injury cut his season short. Now, in IPL 2025, fans can’t wait to see him back on the field.
Pathirana’s Journey to the IPL
Matheesha Pathirana path to the IPL wasn’t a cakewalk. He started playing cricket in Kandy, Sri Lanka, and quickly climbed the ranks. After shining in domestic matches and the Under-19 World Cup, he got picked by CSK in the IPL 2022 auction. At just 19, he was one of the youngest players in the tournament.
His first season was more about learning. He played only two matches but showed flashes of his talent. In IPL 2023, he really stepped up, taking 19 wickets in 12 games with an average of 19.53. His efforts helped CSK reach the playoffs, and people called him one of the best finds of the season.
In IPL 2024, Pathirana was even better, but that hamstring injury stopped him from finishing the tournament. Still, CSK kept faith in him and retained him for IPL 2025, shelling out ₹13 crore to keep him in the yellow jersey. That’s how much they believe in him!
Pathirana’s Unique Bowling Action: A Game-Changer
What makes Pathirana different is his bowling action. Most fast bowlers release the ball from a high angle, but Pathirana’s action is slingy and low. This confuses batsmen because they can’t easily tell how long or short the ball will be. His yorkers are super deadly, often sneaking under the bat and smashing the stumps.
Recently, a cricket expert on X pointed out that Pathirana has tweaked his action a bit. His arm is now slightly higher, which has made him more accurate. The post said, “Pathirana’s speed has gone up, and his new action makes him even tougher to face.”
This style reminds everyone of Lasith Malinga, who also had a slingy action. In fact, Malinga has been guiding Pathirana, helping him polish his skills. Pathirana has said many times that Malinga is his hero, and he’s picking up a lot from him.
Pathirana’s Role in CSK: The Death-Over Star
In T20 cricket, the last few overs—called the death overs—are super important. Batsmen go all out to score big, and bowlers have to stop them. This is where Pathirana shines. He’s CSK’s go-to guy in the death overs, often bowling yorkers that batsmen just can’t hit.
In IPL 2023, Pathirana took 12 wickets in the death overs, more than any other bowler that season. His economy rate in those overs was just 7.8, which is awesome in T20 cricket. He can keep the runs down and grab wickets when it matters most, making him a big asset for CSK.
Even in IPL 2025, after missing the first couple of matches due to injury, Pathirana has made a strong comeback. In a recent match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), he bowled a tight 19th over, giving away just 6 runs and taking a wicket. This helped CSK win by 50 runs—their first victory against RCB at Chepauk in 17 years.
Injuries: A Bump in the Road
Fast bowlers often face injuries, and Pathirana is no exception. In IPL 2024, he got a hamstring injury that forced him to sit out the second half of the season. It was a tough time for CSK, as they missed him badly in the death overs.
In IPL 2025, Pathirana missed the opening match against Mumbai Indians because of a shoulder injury. CSK coach Stephen Fleming said he was still recovering and even sat out the RCB game. But he came back in the next match and has been firing since.
A post on X suggested that Pathirana’s injuries might be linked to his new bowling action. It said, “The remodelled action has caused some issues, but he’s looking fit now.” Despite these challenges, Pathirana has shown he’s tough and ready to fight back.
Pathirana’s Impact on CSK’s Performance
There’s no denying that Pathirana is a match-winner for CSK. His ability to take wickets and bowl tight overs in the death has turned many games in their favour. In IPL 2023, CSK made it to the playoffs thanks to his efforts. In IPL 2024, when he got injured, the team struggled and couldn’t reach the top four.
In IPL 2025, CSK kicked off with a win against Mumbai Indians, even without Pathirana. But his return against RCB showed why he’s so important. In that game, he took 2 wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs, including the big scalp of Virat Kohli.
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad had this to say: “Pathirana is our trump card in the death overs. His yorkers are tough to play, and he always steps up when we need him.”
Fan Reactions: Pathirana Wins Hearts
Pathirana’s performances have made him a darling of the fans, not just in Sri Lanka but also in India. CSK supporters love his fighting spirit and his knack for turning matches around. On social media, posts about Pathirana often go viral, with fans raving about his skills and action.
One fan on X wrote, “Pathirana is CSK’s Malinga. His yorkers are unplayable!” Another said, “Injuries can’t keep him down. He’s back and better than ever!”
Even when he was injured, fans were counting the days till his return. A post from March 2025 said, “CSK needs Pathirana back fast. He’s our X-factor.”
What’s Next for Pathirana?
As IPL 2025 rolls on, everyone’s watching Pathirana closely. CSK is aiming for their sixth IPL title, and he’ll be a big part of that dream. With his form looking solid and injuries behind him, fans hope he can take CSK all the way.
Beyond the IPL, Pathirana is set to shine for Sri Lanka too. He’s already made waves in T20Is, taking 14 wickets in 9 matches at an average of 17.07. With the T20 World Cup in 2026 on the horizon, Sri Lanka will rely on him big time.
In the IPL, Pathirana’s stock is only going up. With the mega auction in 2026 coming, CSK will likely hold on to him, knowing how much he brings to the table.
Why Pathirana Matters in IPL 2025
Matheesha Pathirana isn’t just a bowler—he’s a game-changer. His unique action, pinpoint yorkers, and cool head under pressure make him one of the IPL’s most exciting stars. For CSK, he’s the secret weapon, the guy they trust when the chips are down.
As the IPL season heats up, fans will be glued to Pathirana’s every move. Whether he’s taking wickets, bowling tight overs, or just wowing us with his slingy action, he’s sure to stay in the spotlight.
So, if you love cricket, watch out for this young Sri Lankan star. He’s already making a splash, and there’s plenty more to come!
