Rajasthan Royals owner reveals why they appoints Kumar Sangakkara as head coach for IPL 2026

Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Rajasthan Royals (RR) confirms the appointment of Kumar Sangakkara as their head coach after the departure of Rahul Dravid, who was the head coach during the IPL 2025 campaign. Through a press release, Manoj Badale, lead owner of the Rajasthan Royals, explains why they are trusting the former Sri Lanka skipper for the vital role. Badale reflected on the years-long relationship between the franchise and Sangakkara. Badale said that the former cricketer understands the culture of the franchise and the squad from deep. 

"We are delighted to have Kumar return as head coach. As we looked at what the team needed at this stage, we felt that his familiarity within the squad, his leadership, and his deep understanding of the Royals culture would bring the right balance of continuity and stability," Manoj Badale said. 

"Kumar has always had our complete trust as a leader. His clarity, calmness, and cricketing intelligence will play an important role in guiding the squad into this next phase." 

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Rajasthan Royals appoints Kumar Sangakkara as head coach for IPL 2026

Through a press release, the franchise has announced that Sangakkara has been reappointed as head coach of the franchise, in addition to continuing his role as Director of Cricket. He was in the role from the 2021 to 2024 season. During this period, RR experienced some notable surges in the IPL points tables. Under his coaching and guidance, Rajasthan Royals reached the final of the IPL 2022 and returned to the playoffs in 2024. For the upcoming season, he will be assisted by the Vikram Rathour, who has been elevated to lead assistant coach, and Shane Bond will continue as fast bowling coach.

"I’m honored to return as head coach and continue working with this talented group. I’m also pleased to have a strong coaching team alongside me. Vikram, Trevor, Shane and Sid each bring valuable experience in their areas and together we are focused on preparing the players in the best possible way", Sangakkara said.