Matheesha Pathirana: CSK’s Rising Star of Fast Bowling
The young 20-year-old Sri Lankan pace sensation,fresh from turning heads last year during his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings, Matheesha Pathirana made his way onto the field with that bowling action of hers which attracted attention.
In his very first delivery in the world’s premier T20 league, he made an impact by dismissing Gujarat Titans opener Shubman Gill. Known for his express pace, consistently clocking speeds above 145 km/h, Pathirana has taken on the crucial role of a death bowler for CSK this season. He has been loaded with the responsibility of filling the shoes of the legendary Dwayne Bravo in this department.
Scouted by MS Dhoni
According to several media reports, CSK captain MS Dhoni was a pivotal figure in the discovery of Pathirana. It is alleged that after watching a video highlighting Pathirana’s capabilities to deliver yorkers accurately, Dhoni was impressed and suggested he be picked up for the CSK setup.He was even asked to get vaccinated and prepare to join the team ahead of the 2021 IPL season.
Pathirana could be a part of a close-knit family somewhere. He was born on December 18, 2002, in Kandy, Sri Lanka. His father is a government employee, Anura Pathirana. Little is known about the family, but reports suggest that he was brought up with the two sisters of his.
Is there any relationship between him and Lasith Malinga?
Fans have always questioned if Pathirana is related to former Sri Lanka fast-bowling legend Lasith Malinga because of the uncanny similarity in their unique slingy bowling action. Still, there is no blood relationship between them.
Pathirana’s bowling action is similar to Malinga’s, with even lower-arm release, and that is why he is nicknamed ‘Baby Malinga.’ Malinga is 39 now and has two children, Duvin and Ekeesha.
About the Author
