The Rajasthan Royals confirmed Kumar Sangakkara appointed as RR head coach for IPL 2026. He will also take over as director of cricket. This dual role reinforces his long-standing influence within the franchise. With Rahul Dravid exiting after IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals have opted for a familiar and trusted leader. This choice aims to guide the next phase of their development.
Sangakkara’s Return Strengthens RR’s Leadership Structure
The decision to have Kumar Sangakkara appointed as RR head coach offers continuity after a highly successful stint from 2021 to 2024. During this period, RR reached the IPL 2022 final and secured another playoff appearance in IPL 2024. According to lead owner Manoj Badale, Sangakkara’s calm leadership, sharp cricketing intelligence, and thorough understanding of the Royals’ culture make him the ideal choice.
Additionally, Sangakkara highlighted his excitement about returning to a team that continues to evolve. He emphasised that the focus will be on clarity, purpose and resilience as RR prepare for IPL 2026.
The legend returns to the dugout! 🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) November 17, 2025
Kumar Sangakkara is reappointed Head Coach for Rajasthan Royals in #IPL2026.
He will now hold a dual role, also continuing as Director of Cricket.
📸:Getty#KumarSangakkara #RR #RajasthanRoyals #IPL #IPLNews #WicketBuzz pic.twitter.com/hbTIMAREiU
Rathour, Bond and Penney Retain Key Roles in Support Staff
Alongside the announcement of Kumar Sangakkara appointed as RR head coach, Royals also strengthened their support staff. Vikram Rathour has been promoted to assistant coach after impressing as the batting coach last season. Shane Bond continues as bowling coach, while Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri stay on as assistant coach and performance coach respectively.
This stable coaching core offers RR a strong technical foundation ahead of an important season.
RR Prepare for a New Era After Releasing Sanju Samson
RR’s coaching setup will now work with a new captain. This change follows Sanju Samson being traded to Chennai Super Kings in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. The franchise has also moved on from several players, including Nitish Rana, Ashok Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kumar Kartikeya, and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Furthermore, the squad has been strengthened with the addition of Donovan Ferreira from Delhi Capitals. This move complements the new acquisitions of Jadeja and Curran.
Auction Outlook for IPL 2026
The Royals enter the auction with INR 16.05 crore and nine slots to fill, including one overseas position. With Kumar Sangakkara appointed as RR head coach, the franchise aims to build a balanced team. This team should be capable of competing deep into the tournament once again.
