Former Sri Lanka skipper Kumar Sangakkara has been reinstated as the head coach of the Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2026 season. The 2008 champions announced the move shortly after finalising their player retentions. Sangakkara, who was recently elevated to Director of Cricket across the Royals’ franchises, will now take on dual responsibilities as head coach as well.
He steps in for Rahul Dravid, who led the side in IPL 2025 before unexpectedly stepping down. Dravid’s departure followed a disappointing season for Rajasthan, where they finished second-last, their poorest showing in five years.
“The goal is always constant. We want to win the IPL. That doesn’t change,” Sangakkara said after taking over as the head coach of the Royals.
Kumar Sangakkara will play a central role in shaping Rajasthan’s plans for the upcoming auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Sangakkara Returns As RR Coach After Successful 2021–24 Stint
This marks his return to the position he previously held from 2021 to 2024. During that tenure, the former Sri Lankan star was praised for steering the team out of a difficult phase and guiding them to two playoff appearances in four seasons. He also built a strong and effective partnership with then-captain Sanju Samson, which became one of the highlights of his coaching stint.
𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒌𝒂 𝑯𝒖𝒌𝒖𝒎 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VDiZ3pLswD
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 17, 2025
Under the leadership of Samson and Sangakkara, Rajasthan reached the IPL final in 2022, their first appearance since winning the title in the league’s inaugural season, though they ultimately fell short against the Gujarat Titans. Now, with Samson traded to the Chennai Super Kings before the retention deadline, the Royals will need to appoint a new captain.
In exchange for Samson, Rajasthan acquired Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran from Chennai, adding significant depth to a strong Indian core featuring Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel. Jadeja’s arrival is expected to further bolster the squad.
The franchise has released nine players, including Sri Lankan spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. With the mini auction approaching, it remains uncertain whether Sangakkara will attempt to bring back either of the Lankan spinners.
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