November 17, 2025 : Rajasthan Royals have made a big move ahead of IPL 2026, bringing back Kumar Sangakkara as their head coach, while he also continues in his role as Director of Cricket, the franchise confirmed on Monday.
Sangakkara had previously served as head coach of the Royals from 2021 to 2024, a successful period for the team. Under his coaching, RR reached the IPL final in 2022 and made the playoffs again in 2024.
He steps in to replace Rahul Dravid, who coached the Royals during the 2025 season but left the role after a disappointing campaign.
Leadership Stability and Vision
RR’s lead owner Manoj Badale expressed confidence in Sangakkara’s reappointment: “His clarity, calmness and cricketing intelligence will be vital as we enter the next phase.”
The franchise believes that Sangakkara’s long association with the team — combined with his understanding of the Royals’ culture — brings valuable continuity and stability exactly when it’s needed.
Sangakkara himself said he’s “honoured to return” as head coach, adding that he’s excited to work with a “strong coaching team” that will help prepare the players “in the best possible way.”
He cited Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a young Royals player, as an example of the kind of attitude he wants to see: “That love for the game, the passion … I want that to stay intact,” Sangakkara said.
Coaching Staff Changes
Alongside Sangakkara, the Royals have named major changes to their coaching setup:
- Vikram Rathour has been elevated to Lead Assistant Coach.
- Shane Bond stays on as Fast Bowling Coach — providing continuity in the pace department.
- Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri return as Assistant Coach and Performance Coach, respectively, strengthening the coaching group.
Looking Back: Sangakkara’s First Stint
During his first stint as head coach with RR, Sangakkara led the team through some of its most consistent phases in recent years.
The highlight was their 2022 IPL final appearance, but even in other seasons, his leadership helped the franchise establish a clear identity.
His return also comes amid a significant transition in the playing squad: Sanju Samson, the longtime Royals captain, has been traded to Chennai Super Kings, while RR have brought in Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in a major trade deal.
This rejig under Sangakkara could be the start of a new era for the Royals, as they look to bounce back strongly in the next auction and season.
Challenges Ahead
Sangakkara inherits a team that underperformed in 2025 — finishing ninth in the 10-team league.
The coaching challenge will be to balance youth and experience, instill resilience, and develop a squad capable of competing for the title.
Given his past success and deep knowledge of the franchise, he is uniquely positioned to lead that transformation. The coaching group’s blend of tactical and performance expertise is likely to play a key role in shaping the Royals’ future.
As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches (scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi), Sangakkara’s dual role means he will be deeply involved in shaping the team’s strategy — from auction buys to game planning.
Summary
Kumar Sangakkara returns as Rajasthan Royals’ head coach for IPL 2026, replacing Rahul Dravid. He will also continue as Director of Cricket, aiming to bring stability