Sri Lankan and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling sensation Matheesha Pathirana has credited former CSK skipper MS Dhoni as his ‘father figure’ for the unwavering support and guidance he has received. Pathirana, who made his IPL debut under Dhoni’s leadership in 2022, has blossomed into a key player for the franchise, benefiting from the invaluable advice of the seasoned campaigner.
Pathirana’s stellar performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season have been attributed to the ‘words of wisdom’ imparted by Dhoni. The young pacer, renowned for his ‘slingy’ action, highlighted Dhoni’s role in boosting his confidence with small yet impactful insights.
In an interview on CSK’s ‘Lions Upclose’ show, Pathirana expressed profound gratitude towards Dhoni, likening his influence to that of a father figure in his cricketing journey. He emphasized Dhoni’s knack for providing crucial advice both on and off the field, which has instilled confidence in him.
Pathirana’s admiration for Dhoni extends beyond the cricketing arena, as he made a heartfelt plea for Dhoni to extend his stint with CSK for another season, if possible.
Amidst his standout performances in IPL 2024, where Pathirana ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker with 13 scalps from six innings, the 21-year-old has emerged as a key asset for CSK. His consistent performances in previous seasons underscore his potential to drive CSK towards playoff qualification.
With CSK currently occupying the fifth spot after ten games in IPL 2024, Pathirana’s contributions on the field are crucial as the team aims to secure a spot in the playoffs.
