Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines at the IPL 2026 auction when they secured Sri Lanka pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana for a massive INR 18 crore. However, the fast bowler is yet to play for the three-time champions this season. Pathirana’s absence was initially attributed to an injury concern, which required him to undergo rehabilitation and fitness clearance. 

During this period, he also awaited approval from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) in the form of a No-Objection Certificate (NOC). While that clearance has now reportedly been granted, there is no clarity as to when he will join the squad. Pathirana was also not part of KKR's squad for their match against GT on Friday, with the KKR management, as per reports, citing logistical delays as the reason behind the hold-up. 

The situation has added to KKR’s struggles. The franchise has endured a difficult start to IPL 2026, failing to register a win in their opening matches. They lost the match against GT by five wickets. Meanwhile, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull slammed the franchise for having no clarity regarding the availability of Pathirana. 

“You don't have to tell the whole truth, but just tell something partially and provide some sort of explanation. It kind of leaves you alone; there is no social media speculation, and there is no speculation from us,” said Doull on Cricbuzz.

“We are sitting here wondering if he has been picked up in the auction; we know he's on his way or he's here. Logistical reasons? What? Can't someone find the car key to get him in the car, or is there no seat on the bus for him? We can only laugh about it because we aren't told," he said.

Doull said that it is with every team, not being open about the things.  

“That's what you always do. It's not just KKR, it's every team in this league. They hide things. We need to make assumptions. The franchises hide behind things, thinking it's for the side's benefit. It's not. That's where all the speculation comes from. I said it on the air during the last game: just be open, put out a message on social media. These are the reasons,” Doull said.

“I don't really want to see your players eating cake or having coffee. I would rather know who is available and who is not available. Just be open, some transparency. If you are open and honest about things, you will get some leeway, and people will go, ‘Oh, that’s a real shame,” he added.