Kumar Sangakkara returns as Rajasthan Royals head coach for IPL 2026 after leading the team between 2021 and 2024.
The franchise confirmed his reappointment following Rahul Dravid’s exit in August. Sangakkara previously held the director of cricket in 2025 while Dravid managed the squad.
Rajasthan Royals reshaped their coaching staff to strengthen the team. Vikram Rathour stepped up as lead assistant coach. Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri rejoined as assistant coach and performance coach. Shane Bond continued his role as fast bowling coach, adding depth to the support staff.
The Royals also made bold moves in their playing roster. They traded long-serving captain Sanju Samson to the Chennai Super Kings in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. This decision marked a significant shift in leadership and strategy ahead of the new season.
RR lead owner Manoj Badale expressed confidence in Sangakkara’s leadership. He highlighted Sangakkara’s clarity, calmness, and cricketing intelligence as key assets for guiding the squad. Badale emphasised that Sangakkara’s familiarity with the Royals’ culture ensures stability and continuity during this transition.
Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended abruptly after a structural review of the team’s poor performance in IPL 2025. The Royals finished ninth in the 10-team league, securing only four wins from 14 matches. Sangakkara now faces the challenge of rebuilding the squad and restoring competitiveness.
The franchise looks to Sangakkara’s experience and leadership to inspire a turnaround. His return as Rajasthan Royals head coach signals a fresh chapter for the team as they prepare for IPL 2026.
