look news india
Mathisha Pathirana: Sri Lanka and Chennai Super Kings fast bowler Mathisha Pathirana has praised legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni. He considered former CSK captain Dhoni as his father. Pathirana is part of CSK from 2022. The 21-year-old Pathirana is called Baby Malinga as his action resembles that of former fast bowler Lasith Malinga. Dhoni recognized Pathirana's talent after watching a viral video and decided to include him in CSK. Pathirana made his international debut in June 2023. He has played 12 ODI and 12 T20 matches for Sri Lanka.
According to the CSK website, Pathirana said, 'After my father, he has been playing the role of my father most of the time in my cricket life. They always take care of me and advise me what I should do. He behaves like my father. I think that's enough.' On receiving guidance from Dhoni, Pathirana said, 'When I am on the field or outside the field, he does not tell me many things. They just say little things but it makes a big difference and gives me confidence. It's the little things that matter'.
Pathirana has already praised Dhoni. He said in an interview that I have learned a lot from Dhoni. The first thing is humility and that is why Dhoni is so successful. When I came to IPL, I was like a kid and no one knew me. He prepared me and taught me many things. Now I know how to perform in any T20 match and how to balance my four overs in a match. Dhoni had told me that if I keep my body away from injuries, I can achieve a lot for the team and the country. Pathirana has taken 13 wickets in 6 matches so far in IPL 2024.