Sri Lanka and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Mathisha Pathirana has praised former team captain and veteran wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni. He described Dhoni as his father and said that he is grateful to Dhoni for whatever he has learned. Pathirana has been a part of CSK since 2022 and has now become an integral part of the team.

The 21-year-old Pathirana is fondly called ‘Junior Malinga’ as his action is similar to that of former Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga. Dhoni recognized Pathirana’s talent after watching a viral video and then decided to include him in CSK. Pathirana made his debut in international cricket in June 2023 and since then he has played 12 ODIs and 12 T20s for Sri Lanka.

Mathisha Pathirana praised MS Dhoni fiercely

Quoting CSK website, Pathirana said, “After my father, he is playing the role of my father most of the time in my cricketing life. He always takes care of me and advises me what to do. This is something my father does when I am at home. I think that’s enough.”

Pathirana said on Dhoni’s guidance, “When I am on the field or off the field, he doesn’t tell me a lot of things. He just tells me small things but it makes a big difference and gives me a lot of confidence. These little things matter.”

Even before this, Pathirana had praised Dhoni many times. He had said in an interview, “I have learned a lot from Dhoni. The first thing is humility and that is why he (Dhoni) is very successful. When I went there (IPL) I was a kid and nobody knew me. He trained me and taught me many things.

Now, I know how to play in any T20 match and how to balance my four overs in the match. Dhoni told me that if I keep my body away from injuries, I can achieve a lot for the team and the country.” Let us tell you that Pathirana has played 6 matches so far in this IPL season in which he has taken 13 wickets.