Pathirana injury concern casts shadow over KKR’s record-breaking innings against Gujarat Titans
KKR’s Rs 18 crore acquisition faces early fitness test as Finn Allen and Angkrish Raghuvanshi dismantle Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens
Kolkata Knight Riders posted a franchise-record 247/2 against Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on 16 May 2026, a score that stands as their highest-ever total against this specific opponent. The innings was anchored by Finn Allen’s explosive 93 off 35 deliveries, supported by an unbeaten 82 from Angkrish Raghuvanshi. However, the dominant batting display was overshadowed by an injury scare involving Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana during his IPL 2026 debut.
Pathirana, who had recently recovered from a T20 World Cup injury, showed signs of discomfort after delivering seven balls in his opening spell. He pulled out of his run-up for the eighth delivery, prompting immediate medical attention on the field. Although he completed one additional slower ball before leaving for further treatment, the incident raised questions about his availability for the remainder of the match.
The acquisition of Pathirana for Rs 18 crore in the IPL 2026 auction was viewed as a critical strategic move for the former champions, particularly as they navigated a tight playoff race. His return was expected to provide significant leverage in the bowling department, making his early exit a notable concern for the team’s campaign.
Allen’s innings was characterised by aggressive stroke play, including 10 sixes and four boundaries, with 86 of his runs coming from the boundary rope. The opener survived two dropped catches on 14 and 33 runs before dismantling the Gujarat Titans attack. His performance set the foundation for a dominant batting display that capitalised on Gujarat’s fielding errors.
Gujarat Titans dropped a total of four catches during KKR’s innings, allowing Allen, Raghuvanshi, and Cameron Green to extend their contributions. Raghuvanshi’s unbeaten 82 marked his fifth 50-plus score of the season, while Green also scored a half-century. The 108-run partnership between Raghuvanshi and Green came off just 53 balls, further accelerating the scoring rate.
KKR’s total of 247/2 is not only their highest against Gujarat Titans but also the third-highest in franchise history. The team’s ability to post such a large score against a disciplined bowling unit highlighted their offensive capabilities, even as the injury concern regarding Pathirana looms over their upcoming fixtures.
