[WATCH]- CSK Staff Member Escapes Matheesha Pathirana’s Delivery In Nets Before IPL 2025

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Matheesha Pathirana has started preparing for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. In a recent Instagram post by CSK, the young speedster was captured delivering a precise ball that struck the stumps.

The 22-year-old Sri Lankan, retained by CSK for ₹13 crore, continues to be a key player for the five-time champions as they aim to become the most successful franchise in the tournament’s history. The clip also featured a CSK support staff member swiftly dodging one of Pathirana’s deliveries during the practice session.

You can watch the video here:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHP9X5IzoFI/?igsh=eHhjcWxucm13d3p5

Since joining CSK in 2022, the young pacer has consistently improved, taking 34 wickets in 20 matches at an economy rate of 7.87, including a four-wicket haul. However, he missed the final few games last season, which played a role in CSK failing to reach the playoffs.

Beyond the IPL, Matheesha Pathirana competes in the Lanka Premier League (LPL), International League T20, and SA20. On the international stage, he has also made an impact, claiming 30 wickets in 19 T20Is and 17 scalps in 12 ODIs.

“Steer Clear of Red-Ball Cricket”- MS Dhoni’s Advice to Matheesha Pathirana

Former India captain MS Dhoni once advised Matheesha Pathirana to avoid red-ball cricket due to his distinctive bowling action. The legendary wicketkeeper-batter emphasized that the young pacer could be a valuable asset for Sri Lanka in limited-overs formats. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo in 2023, the 43-year-old stated:

“I personally think he is not someone who should play a lot of red-ball cricket. I think he shouldn’t even get close to it. Even in white-ball cricket, the 50-over version he should play as less as possible.”

“[He should] play the big ICC tournaments because he is not somebody who will change a lot. This [having an impact in short bursts] is what he will do, so you can always use him at crucial times.”

“But make sure that he is fit and available for all ICC tournaments and he will be a great asset for Sri Lanka. Not to forget, he is a really young boy,” he added.

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