Rajasthan Royals have made their name Kumar Sangakkara as their new head coach ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the franchise confirmed on Monday, November 17. Sangakkara, who till now served as the director of cricket operations at the franchise, will return to coaching duties as the franchise bid farewell to Rahul Dravid some time back.
However, it should be noted that there will be no new director of cricket in the team, as Sangakkara will continue in a dual role with the 2008 champions. Coming into an extra role, the veteran cricketer said that he wants the team to cross the line after long years of waiting, as RR are looking for their second title since their win in the inaugural edition.
“Well the goal, that's always a constant. We want to win the IPL. How we do it will change. Other things that remain constant are your team culture, your values and standards. It's an absolute necessity. Seasons don't always go the way everyone wants or plans to go. That's the beauty of the IPL and that's what makes it exciting. Because you're competing against nine other sides who want to win the trophy. I know it's been a long time to wait. 2008,” Sangakkara said upon the announcement.
Meanwhile, Vikram Rathore will now be in charge of the Royals as the chief assistant coach. Rathore has been retained with the franchise, although his role has been slightly changed ahead of the upcoming season. The big question for the franchise right now is how the Royals will carry on with their campaign under a new captain, as they have let go of Sanju Samson for the first time.
There is every possibility that Rajasthan Royals will be led by star cricketer Ravindra Jadeja in 2026, as the star all-rounder is returning home after eighteen years. RR bought Jadeja (INR 14 crore) and Sam Curran (INR 2.4 crore) from Chennai Super Kings by giving away Samson (INR 16.2 crore).
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