Signed for a whopping sum of Rs. 18 crore at the auction, Pathirana was among KKR\u2019s top priorities, but Sri Lanka Cricket is yet to clear him to travel to India and join the squad.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith Pathirana, obviously it\u2019s a waiting game at the moment. We are being guided by Sri Lanka Cricket and we are just doing everything we can to get him over here as soon as possible,\u201d Watson said here on Saturday, ahead of KKR\u2019s season-opener against Mumbai Indians.<\/p>\n
Watson stressed that the franchise is aligned with Sri Lanka Cricket in ensuring the slinging pacer returns only when fully fit. \u201cWe have got the exact same interests as Sri Lankan cricket as well. We want Pathirana to be here, we want him to be fit. We certainly would never push him any earlier than he needs to,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe last thing that we want is him playing the first game trying to come back too early and breaking as well. He was one of our number one priorities in the auction. We know when he is at his best, the incredible skill that he has got and the difference that he provides for the batters.\u201d<\/p>\n
For now, KKR hope the clearance arrives soon \u2014 not just for match readiness but also to ease his integration into the squad. \u201cWe have got our fingers crossed\u2026 hopefully sooner rather than later,\u201d Watson said.<\/p>\n
Published on Mar 28, 2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n