Sri Lanka chose to bowl first after winning the toss against Hong Kong in their second Asia Cup 2025 match. They were excellent in their first game against Bangladesh, with both bat and ball, and will look to keep up the same momentum today.

There’s one change in their playing XI Matheesha Pathirana has been replaced by Maheesh Theekshana. This means Sri Lanka have gone with only two fast bowlers, while Theekshana will team up with Wanindu Hasaranga to take charge of the spin attack.

The decision to rest Pathirana makes sense. The Dubai pitch is quite dry and is expected to help spinners more than pacers. Theekshana can be a match-winner on such pitches and could trouble the Hong Kong batters.

ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2025, HK vs SL, Match 8: Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka Toss update and Playing XI

Pathirana also didn’t have the best outing against Bangladesh, going wicketless and conceding 42 runs. On top of that, he has a history of injuries, so the team wants to manage his workload carefully and keep him fresh for bigger matches later in the tournament. With Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara will lead the pace attack , Sri Lanka will hope their bowlers can get the job done and keep their winning run alive.

Sri Lanka was the winner of the Men’s T20 Asia Cup during the 2022 season in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) when they went through a famous performance in the campaign. They beat Bangladesh in the group stage of the event, besides earning the victory over Afghanistan in the Super Four, along with wins over India and Pakistan.

Sri Lanka, under the captaincy of Charith Asalanka, is coming into the event on the back of their 2-1 series victory against Zimbabwe away from home. They lost the second fixture of the series when they were bundled out for a low score in the first innings of the game, before showing a huge score 24 hours later.

See Also: [WATCH] Shubman Gill reveals dream batting partner and inside details on special birthday video

Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2025 squad- Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwaindu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana.

Sri Lanka will start their campaign on September 13 against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi before locking horns with Hong Kong in Dubai two days later.

Let’s take a look at the top 3 players to watch from Sri Lanka ahead of the Asia Cup 2025

3. Wanindu Hasaranga

The 28-year-old spin all-rounder of Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, has been a regular member of the shortest format due to his incredible skill of bowling and batting in the lower order. He, however, was absent during the away T20I series against Zimbabwe and last featured in a T20 in June for the Colombo CC side.

Hasaranga has picked up 131 wickets in 77 T20 innings at an average of 15.41, a strike rate of 13.2, and an economy rate of under seven. With the bat, the right-handed batter has smashed 712 runs in 67 T20I innings at a strike rate of around 129.

On the other hand, the veteran has notched up 2402 runs in 174 innings in T20s at an average of 17.28 and a strike rate of 144, thanks to nine half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 77 runs. In the bowling department, he bagged 317 scalps in 218 innings at an economy rate of seven. His experience will also be vital for Sri Lanka.

2. Matheesha Pathirana

The 22-year-old right-arm pacer from the Sri Lanka side, Matheesha Pathirana, has used his slingy action like the former great, Lasith Malinga, to earn success in the death overs. He has also used his variations and the slower deliveries to fox the batters, which has always been beneficial for the side.

In 19 T20I innings, Pathirana has picked up 31 wickets at an average of 16.90, a strike rate of 11.8, and an economy rate of 8.54 with the best T20I figures of 4/24 in an innings. In the overall shortest format, he has collected 132 wickets in 97 T20s at an average of 21.14 and an economy rate of 8.59, thanks to the best of 4/20 in an innings.

During the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana struggled for 13 wickets in 12 innings at an average of 32.61 and an economy rate of over 10, which is a concern for the management of the Sri Lanka side.

1. Kamindu Mendis

The 26-year-old Sri Lankan spin all-rounder, Kamindu Mendis, has been a crucial member of the shortest format in the T20I series against Zimbabwe away from home. The southpaw has smashed 443 runs in 24 T20I innings at an average of 20.13 and a strike rate of 128.03, scoring two fifties at the best score of unbeaten 65 runs.

Mendis, in the overall shortest formats, has clubbed 2194 runs in 92 innings at an average of more than 27 and a strike rate of 130.20 with 13 fifties. Mendis has contributed well in the lower middle order besides providing four overs of his innings.

In the Asia Cup 2025, Mendis will bring the best balance in the side as Sri Lanka can aim to go for their successive title in the shortest format.

Arun Jaitley Stadium (Delhi) will host the 62nd match of the IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (CSK vs RR), which has been scheduled for Tuesday evening (May 20). It will be their second meeting this season, while Royals won by six runs in their previous IPL 2025 clash. Let's check the Dream11 top captains and vice-captains choices for the CSK vs RR IPL 2025 match. 

IPL 2025, Match 62: CSK vs RR Probable XIs

Chennai Super Kings Predicted Playing XI: Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel/Khaleel Ahmed (Impact Player Sub), Devon Conway, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, MS Dhoni (Captain and wk), Matheesha Pathirana, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj

Rajasthan Royals Predicted Playing XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sanju Samson (Captain), Riyan Parag, Shubham Dubey, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana/Fazalhaq Farooqi, Akash Madhwal, Tushar Deshpande

See Also: Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (CSK vs RR): Match 62, IPL 2025, Match Preview

IPL 2025, Match 62: CSK vs RR Dream11 Top Captains And Vice-captains

Top 3 Dream11 Captain choices

Noor Ahmad: Afghan left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad is the second leading wicket-taker in the ongoing IPL season with 20 wickets in 12 matches, including two four-fer. 

Yashasvi Jaiswal: Rajasthan Royals' left-handed opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is the third leading run-scorer in the IPL 2025 with 523 runs in 13 games, with six half-centuries. In the last game, he scored 50 off 25 balls (nine fours and one six), including smashing 22 runs to Arshdeep Singh in the first over of the innings while chasing 220 runs. 

Ravindra Jadeja: In the IPL 2025, CSK all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has scored 279 runs in 12 innings, including two half-centuries, and has also picked up eight wickets. 

Top 3 Dream11 Vice-captain choices

Riyan Parag: Riyan Parag is the second most run-scorer for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 by recording 390 runs in 13 innings, including one half-century (95 vs Kolkata Knight Riders). In this season, his batting average is 35.45 and his batting strike rate is 168.10. 

Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The youngest IPL cricketer, the 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, has impressed with his fiery batting performances. He has scored 195 runs in six innings with an average of 32.50 and a strike rate of 219.10, including the second-fastest IPL century. 

Matheesha Pathirana: Sri Lankan right-arm fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has taken 12 wickets in 10 games this season. He can be a better fast bowler with more experience. 

Back in 2022, Chennai Super Kings landed a bowler from Sri Lanka named Matheesha Pathirana, a 19-year-old young bowler from Kandy, Sri Lanka. In the next season, Pathirana showed what he is capable of with his sling bowling action. For the sling bowling action and pinpoint yorkers, Pathirana has earned the nickname 'Baby Malinga.' The 'Baby Malinga' is a mare MS Dhoni fan; for him and his mother, Dhoni is like a father figure. 

Read More: IPL 2025: Punjab Kings Playing 11 vs Rajasthan Royals

Chennai Super Kings recently (April 4) shared a documentary video from their social media account about how the Pathirana family got recognition for cricket, especially for Chennai Super Kings and their former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Pathirana's mother said in this video, "No words about Dhoni. Really (like) God. Matheesha, how he respects (his) father, like that (he shows) respect to Dhoni."

Pathirana almost said the same as his mother, "Dhoni is like my father because of the support and the mentorship and the guidance he is giving me when I'm in CSK... I consider Dhoni my cricketing father."

It is now well known that it was MS Dhoni who asked CSK management to rope in the Sri Lankan fast bowler. Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega-auction, CSK retains the speedster for Rs 13 crore. 

Mahi and Mathee!
Making us feel the bond! 🥹💛

Watch #TheMakingOf Matheesha Pathirana Out now
🔗 - https://t.co/3AmfTzCSmx

#WhistlePodu #Yellove🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/E0Sj4JjGGu

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 4, 2025

Pathirana has not been in prime form in IPL 2025

In the ongoing IPL 2025, Pathirana has taken 4 wickets in 2 matches, though the 5-time champion side needs to get back on the winning track as they suffered back-to-back defeats after a victorious season opener match against Mumbai Indians. CSK will lock horns against Delhi Capitals on April 5 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

CSK are gearing up to face Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 5 at   MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Currently, CSK are in a dire situation as they are currently placed 8th in the points table whereas the DC are placed second on the points table. DC have looked formidable in both the games that they played so far in IPL 2025

Kohli’s sheer willpower in RCB’s match against CSK on March 28 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium is truly something spectacular. This was especially showcased during the face-off against CSK’s sling-action bowler Matheesha Pathirana, which gave rise to a rather classic moment of the match. 

Pathirana unleashed a fiery bouncer that Kohli attempted to pull but mistimed, resulting in the ball striking his helmet. That match was anticipated to be a rollercoaster for the spectators. The first aid was on the scene immediately after the effect, and the Chepauk town diaphorically stared in shock. As luck would have it, Kohli was examined and allowed to proceed. 

Also Read: CSK vs RCB Watch: Intense moment between Khaleel Ahmed and Phil Salt, Virat Kohli on the other end

What did he do first? Easily hit a six over mid-deep. Even after sitting out, seeing knee-deep made him eye the crowd instead and send a message. Then he easily followed that up with a flat four-face, pushing a pass strike towards Kubler.

1st ball – 😮‍💨
2nd ball – 6️⃣

That’s what it’s like facing the GEN GOLD! ❤

Classy counter from #ViratKohli! 🙌🏻

Watch LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/MOqwTBm0TB#IPLonJioStar 👉 #CSKvRCB | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 3 & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/MzSQTD1zQc

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 28, 2025

Also Read: Watch: Viral video captures Kohli & Dhoni ahead of epic CSK vs. RCB clash at Chepauk

Fans all over went wild, screaming over the electrifying climate over the atmosphere brought by the already known former RCB captain and his sheer commanding Kohli. The effortless assault not only silenced all skeptics but also firmly established him as a performer with mounting pressure on him. Pathirana, who has that trademark yorker delivery, felt the full force of Kohli's aggression a rare experience in this high-stakes rivalry.

Chennai Super Kings bowling department has struck a huge blow before the match against RCB in Chennai at Chepauk Stadium. Csk won their opening encounter against Mumbai Indians by 4 wickets as it would have been a tricky chase if Rachin Ravindra hadn't been in the crease who finished the proceedings. In that very match Csk was missing their premium bowler Pathirana, who was ruled out in last year's IPL season due to a hamstring injury.

 It's been said that Pathirana is still in the recovery phase and may take time to recover, so he will be missing the second match against RCB which would be another exciting contest between these two teams.RCB would be using this advantage as they have not won in Chennai since the victory in 2008, its been 17 long years of wait which RCB try to rectify. 

Read More: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans Match 9
Pathirana Ruled Out At Last Year's IPL
Sri Lankan young bowler Pathirana was bought as a replacement player in 2022, whose death over bowling was quite impressive and soon he was an integral part of the team. He has taken 34 wickets at an average of 17.41. Till then Pathirana has been on player for the Csk franchise. He played a crucial role in the 2023 victory triumph which was his first IPL trophy too. Everything was going on w for him but last year he struck with a hamstring injury in mid of the season. 

Since that, he has been in the recovery phase despite his injury, and Csk has retained him for 13 crores. It has been said that Pathirana is in the final stage of his recovery and requires a medical clearance certificate from the SLC board then only he would be able to take part in the league. Already Pathirana had missed the first game against Mumbai Indians and it was clearly seen that Csk was badly missing Pathirana at the death overs, where Deepak Chahar bashed Csk bowlers at the end. 
Stephen Fleming On Pathirana Comeback
CSK is having an important match against RCB, where Pathirana services would have been much important but it has been stated by coach Stephen Fleming that Pathirana has been ruled out against RCB, as he is still recovering from his injury.  Fleming portrayed both team's achievement and their complexity with each other.

Things change quite quickly. The RCB from last year and the CSK from last year are quite different. We don't look at all into past performances. Certainly looking at their team, Kohli is a big part of it, but they've got other strengths as well. With playing conditions always a factor in any game, the CSK head coach admitted that adaptability will be key as the team navigates different pitches throughout the tournament. Each pitch plays differently and one should be ready for every challenge. 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) might be in trouble for IPL 2025 as their key pacer, Matheesha Pathirana, could miss the entire season due to injury for the IPL 2025 season. His absence would be a big blow to CSK’s bowling attack.

Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK started their campaign on a high note with a four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, March 23. However, losing Pathirana could make things tougher for them as the tournament progresses. However, many fans were surprised that Pathirana wasn’t part of the playing XI for the opening match. On the Cheeky Cheeka YouTube channel, the anchor discussed the reason behind Pathirana’s absence. He mentioned that the pacer has returned to his old bowling action and could be dealing with an injury. There’s even a possibility that he might miss the entire season.

Matheesha Pathirana might be out for the season pic.twitter.com/w9HgCaVWoq

— 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐨 (@SergioCSKK) March 24, 2025

"He has gone back to his old action. It’s unusual for CSK to retain a player for ₹13 crores and not play him in the first game. We have to wait and see if it’s due to an injury. I’ve heard that he is injured and might be out for the season, but I’m not sure how true that is. There are always rumors around the IPL, so we can’t confirm anything until there’s an official update," the anchor said.

ALSO READ: New Zealand vs Pakistan 5th T20I: Predicted Playing 11

Pathirana, one of CSK’s key bowlers in recent seasons, wasn’t part of the playing XI, and the team hasn’t shared the reason for his absence. Instead, they went with Noor Ahmad, Rachin Ravindra, Sam Curran, and Nathan Ellis as their four overseas players. Khaleel Ahmed bowled well, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs. Noor Ahmad, CSK’s ₹10 crore signing, was outstanding, picking up 4 wickets for just 18 runs.

In the 2024 IPL edition, while the batters stole the show, it’s undeniable that the game was shaped by the impact of the ball. Amidst the high-scoring runs and memorable batting innings, some standout bowling performances significantly influenced the top-notch batting displays.

This article will delve into the top 5 bowling highlights of the 2024 IPL edition, shedding light on the bowlers who made a significant impact. 

1. Shahbaz Ahmed (Sunrisers Hyderabad) vs Rajasthan Royals- 3/23 

With Sunrisers Hyderabad, a team known for its strong batting attacks and high team scores, the absence of their prime-purchased spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga, due to an injury was a significant blow. However, they managed to turn the tide in their Qualifier 2 match against the Rajasthan Royals, a crucial game that would determine their path to the final.

They relied on their part-time and all-rounder spinners to exploit the no-dew and turning pitch conditions. One such standout was Shahbaz Ahmed, who played a crucial role in scalping the Royals’ batting order wickets. With an economy of a mere 5.75 and having spin-handy support of Abhishek Sharma, they have triumphed a win over the Royals by 36 runs and made their way to their third IPL final. 

2. Matheesha Pathirana (Chennai Super Kings) vs Mumbai Indians- 4/28

The Impact Player rule has been in action since the 2023 IPL edition, and it has stirred a lot of controversies among cricket fanatics and the experienced sports fraternity. Still, this bowling highlight is a prime example of how this rule changes the game’s dynamics.

When Chennai Super Kings set up a target of 207 against a swashbuckling Mumbai Indians batting order, Super Kings’ Pathirana displayed his pace skills and flummoxed Mumbai Indians batting order by scalping four wickets of just 28 runs, with a commendable economy of seven runs. This performance earned him the title of Man of the Match. 

3. Mitchell Starc (Kolkata Knight Riders) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad- 3/34

When the top Australian pacer, Mitchell Starc, was bought for a colossal INR 24.5 Crore, making him the most expensive player in the tournament’s history, many critics gave their words on the costly and unnecessary purchase.

But during the Qualifier-1 match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, Starc proved his calibre of why he’s the best in the business with his crucial performance during the game by scalping major wickets of the robust Sunrisers Hyderabad batting lineup, by taking three wickets of just 34 runs, at an economy of 8.5, with the swing and pace with the new ball being the highlight. 

See Also: IPL 2024: Top 5 best batting highlights of IPL 2024

4. Mayank Yadav (Lucknow Super Giants) vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru- 3/14

IPL has been a breeding ground for young and emerging cricketing talent, domestic or foreign players. With this season witnessing several promising domestic talents, one such talent arises from the pace bowling department. Mayank Yadav is one of the elements of Lucknow Super Giants’ young-blooded and emerging bowling attack, where his bowling speed has done the talking.

His first-ever IPL delivery clocked at a fiery pace of 147 mph, with other deliveries clocking at 155.8 mph. The speed gun displayed his pace and wicket-taking abilities in his second IPL match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he had scalped three wickets at an astonishing economy of 3.5, leading the team to a 28-run win and earning his first-ever MOM award. Though his injury sidelined him for the majority of the season, he has a bright future ahead and is getting a chance to get his maiden international call. 

5. T Natarajan (Sunrisers Hyderabad) vs Delhi Capitals- 4/19 

Hailed as the Yorker King, T Natarajan has been a valuable asset for the Sunrisers Hyderabad for a long period and has been vital in scalping pivotal wickets. This match acts as one such instance. Giving a colossal target of 267 runs against a powerful batting order of Delhi Capitals, T Natarajan provided some unplayable deliveries.

He took a triple-wicket maiden over in his final over, summing up his quality pace attack. There is a noteworthy mention of T Natarajan being the team’s highest wicket-taker and the tournament’s fourth-highest wicket-taker (19 wickets). 

Chennai Super Kings have been dealt a significant blow as their death-bowling specialist, Matheesha Pathirana, has been forced to return to Sri Lanka to recover from a hamstring injury. This setback comes at a crucial juncture for the team as they navigate through the challenges of the IPL season.

Matheesha Pathirana’s Injury

Pathirana leaves a noticeable void in the CSK bowling lineup, particularly in the crucial death overs, where his expertise is invaluable. His ability to deliver under pressure has been a critical asset for the team, making his absence sorely felt on the field.

“Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana is nursing a hamstring injury and will be returning to Sri Lanka for further recovery,” stated a media release from CSK.

See Also: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: India will face Pakistan in Slyhet

Absence of Deepak Chahar

The situation is further compounded by the absence of Deepak Chahar, CSK’s powerplay specialist, who is also sidelined due to injury. Chahar’s early departure from the field in a previous match has left CSK grappling with limited options in their bowling department, adding to their woes.

CSK’s Remaining Bowling Options

With Pathirana and Chahar sidelined, CSK faces a challenge in managing their bowling resources effectively. The team will have to rely on alternative options to fill the void left by their key bowlers, with overseas recruit Richard Gleeson emerging as a pivotal figure in the lineup.

Pathirana’s Performance in IPL 2024

Despite his injury setbacks, Pathirana showcased his talent in the IPL 2024 season, significantly contributing to the team’s performance. In the six games he played, he claimed 13 wickets with an economy rate of 7.68, highlighting his importance to the CSK lineup.

Sri Lankan Fast Bowlers Sidelined in IPL

Pathirana’s injury adds to the woes of Sri Lankan fast bowlers in the IPL, with left-armer Dilshan Madushanka also ruled out for the season. The withdrawal of Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s premier leg-spinner, due to chronic heel pain further diminishes the presence of Sri Lankan players in the IPL.

MS Dhoni’s impact on cricket transcends boundaries, with his mentorship leaving an indelible mark on budding talents worldwide. Renowned for nurturing young cricketers, Dhoni’s influence extends from the Indian national team to the Indian Premier League (IPL), particularly with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he has led the team to a record 5 titles.

Since assuming the Indian captaincy in 2007, Dhoni has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of Indian stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Under his astute leadership, CSK has witnessed the transformation of talents like Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja into cricketing luminaries.

“He takes care of me, and he gives me advice on what I have to do…”

However, Dhoni’s impact is not confined to Indian players alone. Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana stands as a testament to Dhoni’s keen eye for talent. Discovered by Dhoni during his stint with CSK in 2022, Pathirana made his national debut the same year, thanks to Dhoni’s guidance and support.

“After my father, in my cricket life, he (Dhoni) plays my father’s role. He takes care of me, and he gives me advice on what I have to do, similar to my father’s thing when I’m at my home. I think that’s enough,” said Pathirana.

“He doesn’t tell me a lot of things when I’m on the field and off the field, but he tells just small things that make a lot of difference and gives me a lot of confidence. He knows how to maintain the players. Off the field, we don’t talk much, but if I have to ask something from him, definitely I’d go to him and ask him,” Pathirana said further.

Pathirana’s impact upon the team

In a heartfelt interaction with CSK on their official YouTube channel, Pathirana expressed his profound gratitude towards Dhoni, hailing him as a father figure in his cricketing journey. Dhoni’s unwavering support has been instrumental in Pathirana’s development and success.

Pathirana’s contributions to CSK’s triumphs in the IPL are undeniable. In the previous edition, he played a pivotal role, claiming 19 wickets in 12 matches as CSK secured their fifth title. This season, Pathirana continues to shine, having already taken 13 wickets in six matches, placing him among the top contenders for the coveted Purple Cap.

See Also: Starc expects T20 World Cup to have better balance without Impact Player rule

Dhoni’s legacy as a mentor and leader continues to inspire young cricketers globally, showcasing the profound impact of his mentorship beyond the boundaries of nations and leagues.