Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka has revealed how strongly captain Rishabh Pant wanted to bring Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana into the LSG squad during the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Goenka also revealed that Pathirana was their top priority, but due to a limited budget, they had to step back.
Speaking to broadcaster JioStar, Goenka confirmed that Pant and the team management were keen on Pathirana.
He said, “Yes, our captain and vice-captain were both very keen on Matheesha Pathirana, as was I. We were also very interested in Anrich Nortje. Pathirana was our priority, and we went up to INR 17.8 crore, which was our absolute limit. We didn’t have the purse to go beyond that.”
Pathirana had a base price of ₹2 crore, and franchises were involved in a bidding war which included LSG, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Pathirana was eventually acquired by KKR for a massive ₹18 crore.
Goenka added that after Pathirana was sold, LSG made other plans and managed to secure Anrich Nortje at a much lower cost compared to Pathirana.
“When Anrich Nortje came up later, we were pleasantly surprised and delighted to secure him at the base price. So overall, it was a very considered, concerted, and well-thought-out decision,” he said.
Goenka further added that Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga were LSG’s main targets at the auction.
He said, “We are very close to our primary targets. Our key objectives were to secure one quality international leg-spinner and one reputed international fast bowler. Wanindu Hasaranga was our first-choice leg-spinner, and for the fast-bowling option, it was between Matheesha Pathirana and Anrich Nortje. We are delighted to have acquired two players who were part of our shortlisted three, so we are extremely happy with how the auction has unfolded.”
Also read: “Forever Grateful” – Pathirana thanks MS Dhoni and CSK after KKR move
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