Former Sri Lankan legendary batter Kumar Sangakkara is back with the Rajasthan Royals, this time as head coach for IPL 2026. He already knows the squad inside out, he was their Director of Cricket, and he’s stepping in after Rahul Dravid’s single season in charge.
Dravid’s run didn’t go well, the Royals finished ninth in 2025, only picking up eight points from 14 games. People talked about a falling-out between Dravid and Sanju Samson, but the team pushed back and said there was nothing to it.
KIMAR SANGAKKARA RETURNS AS THE HEAD COACH OF RAJASTHAN ROYALS. pic.twitter.com/oTmtJbfYwi
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 17, 2025
Sangakkara isn’t new to success here. He took RR to the 2022 final and got them into the playoffs in 2024. Now, the Royals want him to steady the ship and chase their second IPL trophy. “It’s an honour to return as Head Coach and work with this talented bunch again,” Sangakkara said.
You’ve been waiting. This one’s for you.
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 17, 2025
🗣️Hear from Head Coach Kumar Sangakkara exclusively on our YouTube channel. 🎥 pic.twitter.com/p0emS82psU
He’s got a solid staff, too. “Vikram, Trevor, Shane, and Sid each have their strengths, and together we’re focused on getting the best out of every player. We know where we’re headed and want to build a team that plays with clarity, resilience, and purpose.”
Vikram Rathour moves up to assistant coach, focusing on batting, planning, and prepping the team with Sangakkara. Shane Bond stays on as fast bowling coach, while Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri keep their jobs as assistant and performance coach, so the core team sticks together.
Manoj Badale, the Royals’ main owner, is happy to have Sangakkara back in charge. “Kumar knows this squad, he understands what makes the Royals tick, and he brings stability. His calm presence and cricketing smarts are exactly what we need for this next chapter.”
The Royals haven’t wasted time shaking things up. They traded Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings and brought in Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja. The big IPL 2026 auction is set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, and now it’s on Sangakkara to fill the gaps and build a team that can contend for the title.
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