Kumar Sangakkara has returned as the Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026, apart from continuing in his role as the Director of Cricket, the franchise announced on Monday.
Sangakkara had served in the role of head coach from 2021 to 2024, before Rahul Dravid took over the position for IPL 2025. Under Sangakkara, Royals had played the final in 2022 and reached the playoffs in IPL 2024.
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Speaking of Sangakkara’s appointment, Manoj Badale, the Lead Owner of the franchise said, “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.
“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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Meanwhile, Vikram Rathore has been elevated to the position of Lead Assistant Coach while Shane Bond will continue as the Bowling Coach of the team. Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri return as the Assistant Coach and Performance Coach respectively.
