Matheesha Pathirana Returns to CSK XI for RCB Clash in IPL 2025
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are currently facing off against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in match No. 8 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The match, a crucial second league stage encounter for CSK, is being played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to field first. A key change to the CSK playing XI sees Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana return to the side, replacing Nathan Ellis.
Matheesha Pathirana's Return and Nathan Ellis' Absence
Pathirana, a promising young talent, missed CSK’s previous match against the Mumbai Indians. His inclusion strengthens CSK’s bowling attack. The reason for Nathan Ellis' omission from the playing XI has not been officially stated, but it provides an opportunity for Pathirana to showcase his skills.
Pathirana's Recent Form and IPL Record
Prior to this IPL match, Pathirana last played a competitive match on January 2025, representing Joburg Super Kings against Paarl Royals in Johannesburg. While he bowled two overs in that match, he didn't manage to take a wicket and conceded 23 runs.
Here's a look at Pathirana's IPL career so far:
- Debut: May 15, 2022, against Gujarat Titans at Wankhede Stadium.
- First Wicket: Shubman Gill.
- Figures in Debut Match: 2/24 in 3.1 overs.
- Overall IPL Record: 20 matches, 34 wickets.
CSK retained Pathirana for a substantial Rs 13 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auctions, highlighting his value to the team.
Playing XIs
Here are the confirmed playing XIs for both teams:
Chennai Super Kings: Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdut Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (C), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why isn't Nathan Ellis playing? The reason for Nathan Ellis' absence is currently undisclosed.
- What is Matheesha Pathirana's role in the CSK team? Pathirana is a key fast bowler for CSK, known for his pace and variations.
- When did Matheesha Pathirana last play a competitive match? He last played on January 2025, for Joburg Super Kings.
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