Matheesha Pathirana Ruled Out Of T20 World Cup 2026 After Calf Injury

Matheesha Pathirana is set to miss the rest of the T20 World Cup after scans revealed a calf strain

Matheesha Pathirana is almost certain to miss the remainder of the T20 World Cup after scans confirmed a calf strain that could take several weeks to heal. However, his availability for the Indian Premier League (IPL) is not under threat at this stage.

Pathirana suffered the injury during Sri Lanka’s match against Australia in Pallekele. He clutched his left leg after delivering his fourth ball of the spell and required assistance to leave the field. He did not return to bowl in the innings.

Sri Lanka’s batting consultant Vikram Rathour confirmed the development on Wednesday, ahead of the team’s final group-stage match against Zimbabwe.

“I think he’s been declared unfit for the rest of the tournament. I think that news will be coming out, if it’s ruling him out. As far as the replacement is concerned, it’s still being discussed.”

Pathirana has been one of Sri Lanka’s key bowlers, especially in the death overs. He is also the fastest among the current Sri Lankan pace attack. His absence will be a major setback as the team prepares for the Super Eight stage.

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Sri Lanka are considering multiple options as a replacement. Left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka recently returned to match fitness after a long injury layoff, although his T20I record remains modest. Left-arm seamer Binura Fernando and round-arm pacer Nuwan Thushara are also in contention. Team management is also discussing additional batting and spin-bowling options.

Sri Lanka are scheduled to face England cricket team in Pallekele and New Zealand cricket team at Khettarama during the Super Eight stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup. They will also play a third opponent in Pallekele, which is yet to be determined.