The Rajasthan Royals franchise has confirmed that former Sri Lanka cricketer Kumar Sangakkara has been appointed as the head coach of the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
He took over the role after Rahul Dravid left the Royals in August following a disappointing campaign in the 2025 season of the tournament. Meanwhile, Vikram Rathour who was the batting coach last season, has been promoted to assistant head coach.
Rathour has previously worked under Dravid as India’s men’s batting coach from 2014 to 2024.
Kumar Sangakkara has also coached Royals ahead of 2021 to 2024, a period when the team showed steady improvement.
“We are delighted to have Kumar back. His familiarity with the squad, leadership, and understanding of the Royals’ culture will bring continuity and stability,” said Manoj Badale.
He also added that Sangakkara’s calmness and cricketing brilliance will be vital in guiding the team forward.
🚨 Official: Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara will also take charge as Head Coach for IPL 2026 pic.twitter.com/4IRWoQM3mj
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 17, 2025
Former New Zealand Shane Bond will continue as the fast bowling coach Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri will return as assistant coach and performance coach respectively.
Speaking on his appointment, Kumar Sangakkara said, “I’m honoured to return as head coach and work with this talented group. I’m also happy to have a strong coaching team with me. Together, we’ll focus on preparing the players in the best possible way. We want to build a team that plays with clarity, resilience, and purpose.”
One of the biggest challenges for Sangakkara and the management will be picking a new captain.
Former skipper Sanju Samson’s six year stint ended last week when he was traded to Chennai Super Kings. In return, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran has joined Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
They have also traded Nitish Rana to Delhi Capitals in exchange for Donovan Ferreira. Meanwhile, several players like Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kumar Karthikeya, Kunal Singh Rathore, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga has been included in Rajasthan Royals Released players list.
Rajasthan Royals has spent INR 108.95 on retentions and will be entering the auction with a remaining purse value of INR 16.05 crore. The IPL 2026 auction is scheduled for 16 December at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi.
