'Not Far Away From Dharamsala': CSK's Matheesha Pathirana Set to Return Ahead of PBKS Clash

The Chennai Super Kings were without the services of the Sri Lankan duo, Matheesha Pathirana and Maheesh Theekshana in their recent fixture against Punjab Kings at Chepauk on Wednesday.

However, the slinger had suggested that he could be in line for a return to the side after travelling back home to Sri Lanka due to visa issues and the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad had also revealed that the pacer had a niggle as well.

While Theekshana has not been utilised much through the season, his fellow compatriot, Pathirana has taken his game to a new level, showcasing his prowess of taking wickets through the middle and death overs in clusters.

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He is now the joint-fifth-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing season of the IPL with 13 scalps in only six games.

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His loss proved to be a big one for the defending champions as they suffered a defeat at home against Punjab Kings. Despite the CSK skipper scoring 62 in 48 balls, the rest of the batting unit suffered and set a below-par score of 163 runs which Punjab chased down with ease thanks to the overseas duo of Jonny Bairstow and Rilee Roussow who scored 46(30) and 43(23) respectively to help seal the chase with 13 balls to spare.

However, they have the chance to rectify this loss with the reverse-fixture taking place at Dharamsala which will be Punjab’s new home for the season. However, the defending champions will have to make do without Mustafizur Rahman who has left the squad for national duties and preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.

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With the season heading towards the business end, sides will be looking to win as many games as possible and potentially secure their spot in the playoffs. CSK in the race to the playoffs have 10 points while PBKS are only two points behind them and a win for the home side could dent a massive blow in Gaikwad’s side making it to the tournament’s next stage.