The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) player auction is currently underway in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and it has already delivered a historic moment for Sri Lankan cricket.
Sri Lanka’s fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering INR 18 crore, making him the most expensive Sri Lankan player ever in IPL auction history. The amount is approximately LKR 61.2 crore, setting a new national record.
The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 31, featuring 10 teams. This year’s auction attracted 251 Indian players and 118 overseas players, including 12 Sri Lankans.
Among the Sri Lankan contingent, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana were listed in the highest base-price category of INR 2 crore.
- Lucknow Super Giants secured Wanindu Hasaranga for INR 2 crore (approx. LKR 6.8 crore).
- Delhi Capitals signed opener Pathum Nissanka for INR 4 crore (approx. LKR 13.6 crore). This will be Nissanka’s first-ever IPL appearance.
Meanwhile, the highest-priced player overall so far in the auction is Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 25.20 crore (around LKR 85.7 crore). This stands as the most expensive overseas player ever sold at an IPL auction.
The record-breaking deals underline the growing global value of Sri Lankan talent and mark a proud moment for the island’s cricketing future.
