Former Sri Lankan legendary batter Kumar Sangakkara is back with the Rajasthan Royals, this time as head coach for IPL 2026. He already knows the squad inside out, he was their Director of Cricket, and he’s stepping in after Rahul Dravid’s single season in charge.

Dravid’s run didn’t go well, the Royals finished ninth in 2025, only picking up eight points from 14 games. People talked about a falling-out between Dravid and Sanju Samson, but the team pushed back and said there was nothing to it.

Sangakkara isn’t new to success here. He took RR to the 2022 final and got them into the playoffs in 2024. Now, the Royals want him to steady the ship and chase their second IPL trophy. “It’s an honour to return as Head Coach and work with this talented bunch again,” Sangakkara said.

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