Sri Lankan Duo Joins CSK Squad For Remainder Of IPL 2023

image-lg9d9lavMatheesha Pathirana in action [Source: Twitter]

In a significant development, Sri Lankan duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana have joined the Chennai Super Kings' squad for the IPL 2023. As a result, both players will be available for selection for CSK's upcoming clash against Rajasthan Royals on April 12. 

Notably, Theekshana and Pathirana hadn't joined the CSK squad earlier, as they were with the national side for Sri Lanka's T20I series against New Zealand. However, as they have returned, the Super Kings have received a massive boost midway in the showpiece event. 

Theekshana was CSK's primary spin weapon in the IPL 2022, scalping 12 wickets in nine appearances at an economy of 7.46. On the other hand, despite being a talented bowler, Pathirana mostly warmed the bench for most part of the season last year. 


What could be CSK's combination against RR?

As Theekshana is available, CSK might replace Mitchell Santner with him for their fourth group-stage encounter against the Royals. However, with Sisanda Magala in the team, we don't see Pathirana getting a game anytime soon. 

Meanwhile, in a massive setback for the franchise, Deepak Chahar and Ben Stokes are set to miss out on action for an extended period of time. While Chahar sustained a hamstring injury, Stokes is doubtful for a week due to an ankle injury.