CSK’s Matheesha Pathirana Becomes Most Expensive Player in Lanka Premier League Auction; To Earn More than IPL Salary
Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has set a new record as the most expensive player in the history of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) auction, fetching USD 120,000. This landmark sale occurred after a competitive bidding war on Tuesday, May 21.
Pathirana, renowned for his unique sling action, similar to legendary Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga, was acquired by the Colombo Strikers, who matched the Galle Marvels’ bid using their Right to Match (RTM) option.
In addition to Pathirana, the Colombo Strikers strengthened their pace attack by signing Bangladesh’s Taskin Ahmed for USD 50,000. They also secured Afghanistan and KKR opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The team had previously retained several key players, including Chamika Karunaratne, Thisara Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Nipun Dhananjaya, and overseas stars Shadab Khan and Glenn Phillips.
Matheesha Pathirana Will Earn More Than IPL in Lanka Premier League 2024
Pathirana’s LPL auction price is significantly higher than his initial price in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Initially signed by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for Rs 20 lakh in 2022 as a replacement for New Zealand’s Adam Milne, Pathirana quickly became a fan favourite. During his three-year stint with CSK, he played a pivotal role in their 2023 title win, taking 19 wickets in 12 matches.
However, Pathirana’s early return to Sri Lanka due to injury in 2024 had a notable impact on CSK’s performance, contributing to their early exit from the tournament. Despite playing only six matches that season, he managed to take 13 wickets, with CSK finishing fifth in the 10-team table.
Pathirana is set to next showcase his skills in the T20 World Cup 2024, having been included in Sri Lanka’s strong squad for the tournament starting on June 2nd in the USA and the West Indies.
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