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Sri Lanka’s pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is expected to miss the rest of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after sustaining a calf injury during Monday’s (February 16) Group B clash against Australia at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
The 23-year-old fast bowler was forced off the field after only four deliveries in his opening over, clutching his left leg in visible discomfort. Team physiotherapists rushed to assist, and Pathirana was unable to leave the field without support, raising concerns over the severity of the injury.
With Pathirana sidelined, Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lankan captain, stepped in to complete the over. Shortly afterward, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that Pathirana would not participate further in the match against Australia.
To assess the full extent of the injury, Pathirana is scheduled to undergo a medical scan, as announced by SLC. His absence represents a significant blow to the Sri Lankan bowling attack, given his key role as a strike bowler in the T20 format.
In response, Sri Lanka is expected to bring in a replacement, with options including Dilshan Madushanka or Nuwan Thushara, depending on final fitness assessments and team strategy.
The team will now rely on its remaining pace and spin resources as it looks to navigate the Super Eights stage of the tournament without one of its most potent bowlers.
