MS Dhoni’s Role in Pathirana’s Rise
MS Dhoni has always been a strong supporter of young cricketers. From his time as India's captain to his role in the IPL, he has nurtured many rising stars. One of them is Matheesha Pathirana, a young Sri Lankan pacer who has flourished under Dhoni’s mentorship. Pathirana goes ahead to term Dhoni the "father of cricket" ascribing this greatness to him since the big captain had an impact on inspiring him. From his family's musical heritage to a cricket superstar is in itself astounding.
A Family Embedded in Music
Matheesha Pathirana was born into a musical family in Kandy, Sri Lanka. His mother, Shailika, and father, Anura, are both singers, and music was a large part of his life when he was young. A talented pianist and singer himself, Pathirana tried his hand at numerous musical instruments initially. His mother always hoped that he would be a pilot so he could travel all over the world. Although he did travel all over the world, it was not as a pilot but rather as a cricketer.
Pathirana was the youngest in his family, and his two sisters would claim that he was like a "rabbit in a laboratory." Although he was not an intellectually gifted student, he was very keen on sports, which in turn shaped his future.
From Baseball to Cricket
Surprisingly, Pathirana first started playing baseball before learning cricket. He did not know a thing about the sport until seventh grade. But after seniors saw his natural bowling style, they convinced him to play cricket. Though he initially consented on the promise that he would pursue his studies, he subsequently dedicated himself entirely to the sport.
His mother, Shailika, proceeded to reveal that he never even touched his books once he made that decision.
The Turning Point: A Viral Video & CSK's Interest
Ex-Sri Lankan cricketer Chaminda Vaas advised Pathirana to attend Trinity College in Colombo, Sri Lanka's best private school for producing cricketing stars. His big break was when a clip of him taking six wickets on a turf wicket went viral. This got him selected in Sri Lanka's Under-19 side.
Though he didn't have a remarkable Under-19 career, he was noticed by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) video analyst Lakshmi Narayanan. CSK extended an invitation to Pathirana for net practice after his good performance in the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament.
CSK CEO Kashi Viswanathan recalled that Dhoni had never seen Pathirana before. However, when they met in the nets, Dhoni immediately recognized his potential. Shortly after, CSK signed Pathirana as a replacement for New Zealand pacer Adam Milne during the IPL 2022 season.
Dhoni’s Mentorship: A Father Figure in Cricket
Since joining CSK, Pathirana has thrived under Dhoni’s leadership. He often credits Dhoni’s guidance as the biggest factor in his success.
"I consider Dhoni as a father. He has completely transformed my cricket career. As my father takes care of me at home, Dhoni has cared for me in cricket," Pathirana added.
His parents also expressed gratitude to Dhoni for guiding their son.
CSK's Faith: Retained for ₹13 Crore
Although Pathirana only played six matches for the IPL 2024 season due to injury, CSK had immense trust in him. The franchise retained him at ₹13 crore, reflecting their trust in him.
Pathirana was instrumental in CSK's 2023 championship season, claiming 19 wickets from a total of 12 matches. His ability to score in death overs and prevent runs has him compared to the Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malinga.
Under the tutelage of Dhoni and with the ongoing support of CSK, the future of cricket for Pathirana appears nothing but bright.
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