Missing Sam Curran stings more than expected. Kumar Sangakkara, steering Rajasthan Royals as both head coach and team director, sees it clearly. His presence lifts others, raises the bar. Without him in IPL 2026, gaps show where impact once flowed. Strength fades slightly when talent like his steps away.
Out of nowhere, a setback hit Curran – he got hurt. That meant no IPL stint for him this time around. Rajasthan Royals moved fast, bringing in Dasun Shanaka from Sri Lanka instead. When asked about losing Curran, Sangakkara didn’t dwell on the loss. He seemed fine, even upbeat, about what Shanaka could bring
“We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam’s calibre so close to the start of the season,” RR head coach and team director Kumar Sangakkara said in a statement.
“Sam brings immense value with both bat and ball. However, we are pleased to have found an ideal replacement in Dasun Shanaka, a finisher with the bat and a quality all-rounder who helps maintain the balance of our side,” he added.
Shanaka Leaves PSL To Join IPL
Out of nowhere, Shanaka chose IPL over the Pakistan Super League 2026. Not sticking around anymore, he’s swapped Lahore Qalandars for Rajasthan Royals. Away from PSL, just like Blessing Muzarabani did earlier. Muzarabani broke ties with Islamabad United, headed straight to Kolkata Knight Riders. Now joining him off the list, Shanaka becomes the second name to step back.
Only weeks after going unnoticed in December’s IPL auction, Shanaka changed course. Picked up by Qalandars for 75 lakh rupees, he later stepped away from the Pakistan competition.
Rajasthan Royals face Chennai Super Kings in IPL opener
March 30 marks the start of Rajasthan Royals’ IPL journey, facing off against Chennai Super Kings – five-time title holders – at Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium. Their opening match unfolds under spotlight, pitting seasoned rivals in a venue known for electric crowds.
Battling through weak runs last year, Chennai Super Kings plus Rajasthan Royals arrive now with changed lineups hoping for better fortune. With the 2026 tournament kicking off March 28, each team eyes sharper play and a shot at post-season games. Starting just ahead of that date, the league opens March 26 when title holders Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Opening their IPL 2026 campaign, Rajasthan Royals face Chennai Super Kings at home in Guwahati come March 30.
