Theekshana, Pathirana to join CSK squad on April 10

CSK’s Sri Lankan recruits Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana will join the squad on April 10, in time for their next fixture – against Rajasthan Royals at Chepauk on April 12. The CEO of the franchise Kasi Viswanathan confirmed this development.

Theekshana, who debuted for the franchise last season, is a vital player for the side as he was used in the PowerPlay by Dhoni. He claimed 12 wickets in nine games with his mystery spin last season and once he joins the squad,  Mitchell Santner’s position in the XI could be vulnerable. The New Zealander has featured in all three games so far in the season.

Like Theekshana, Pathirana too debuted in the IPL last year and played in two matches for CSK and claimed two wickets with his right arm medium pace. Both can take up the IPL assignment as their international duty in New Zealand has ended with the third and final T20I which finished on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga, the other two Lankans in New Zealand currently, are also on their way to India and they will be joining their teams, Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bangalore respectively. The only other Sri Lankan in the IPL, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, is already in India and is part of the Punjab Kings franchise.