Rajasthan Royals announced on Monday that former Sri Lanka star Kumar Sangakkara will return to the team in a dual role as head coach and director of cricket for IPL 2026. Vikram Rathour, who was the batting coach last season, has been promoted to assistant coach.
Sangakkara took over the role after Rahul Dravid left the Royals in August following a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where Rajasthan finished ninth – their worst performance since 2021. Rathour has previously worked under Dravid as India’s men’s batting coach from 2019 to 2024.
Sangakkara also coached the Royals from 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,” Manoj Badale, lead owner of the franchise said. He added that Sangakkara’s calmness and cricketing intelligence will be vital in guiding the team forward.
Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond will continue as the fast bowling coach. Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri will return as assistant coach and performance coach, respectively.
Sangakkara’s vision for IPL 2026
“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,” Sangakkara said.
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, Rajasthan got veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and England all-rounder Sam Curran.
Rajasthan also traded left-handed batter Nitish Rana to Delhi Capitals in exchange for South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira. The team released several players before the IPL auction, including Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kumar Kartikeya, Kunal Singh Rathore, Maheesh Theekshana, and Wanindu Hasaranga. The Royals will enter the IPL 2026 auction with a salary cap of Rs 16.05 crore, needing to fill nine slots, including one overseas player.