‘Playing for CSK is a God Gift’: Young SL Pacer Says Sharing Dressing Room with MS Dhoni is ‘Special’

Young pacer Matheesha Pathirana is gearing up for the 3-match T20I series against India, starting Friday. The right-arm quick, known for sling action resembling former captain Lasith Malinga, suffered a hamstring injury during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 and had to leave the Chennai Super Kings camp midway. But he regained his fitness and featured in the T20 World Cup 2024 where Sri Lanka were knocked out of the Group Stage.

Pathirana has risen as one of Sri Lanka’s top pacers since making his international debut in 2022. In a span of two years, the 22-year-old has played only 9 matches but has scalped 19 wickets at an average of 17. The young pacer credits his IPL franchise CSK for skyrocketing his cricketing career.

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Speaking to Sportstar, Pathirana recalled when he wasn’t getting a break in the senior men’s team after his Under-19 days. But his stint with CSK turned his fortunes.

“After my under-19s, I was not in any squads in Sri Lanka. But since my debut for CSK, I got those chances and got selected for Sri Lanka’s main team. Playing for CSK is a gift from god for me,” Pathirana was quoted as saying.

The youngster further lauded legendary MS Dhoni for his guidance throughout his journey with the CSK in the IPL.

“Until I played for CSK, not many knew me. Sharing the dressing room with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) is very special for youngsters like me, especially coming from Sri Lanka,” he added.

Being Good in Death Overs is not enough

Pathirana has established himself as one of the best bowlers in death overs. But he aspires to be equally good with the new ball as well.

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“A lot of people say I am good at death. But for me, that is not enough. I want to be good with the new ball and in the middle overs as well. If I can get swing and accuracy with the new ball, it will be good for me and the teams I play for,” he said.

“I just want to keep it simple. I don’t think about that. If I get my accuracy at the pinpoint, the right lengths and the swing, that will be enough for me,” he added.