Sangakkara returns as Rajasthan Royals' head coach

Kumar Sangakkara has returned as the Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026, while continuing in his role as the Director of Cricket.

Sangakkara previously served as head coach from 2021 to 2024, before Rahul Dravid took over for IPL 2025. Under Sangakkara's leadership, the Royals reached the final in 2022 and qualified for the playoffs in IPL 2024.

Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of the franchise, commented on the appointment: "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."

In other coaching updates:

• Vikram Rathore has been elevated to Lead Assistant Coach
• Shane Bond continues as Bowling Coach
• Trevor Penney returns as Assistant Coach
• Sid Lahiri returns as Performance Coach