New Delhi, Nov 17 (NationPress) The Rajasthan Royals have welcomed back Kumar Sangakkara as the head coach of the team, while he continues to fulfill his duties as the Director of Cricket.

Sangakkara's first tenure as head coach lasted from 2021 to 2024, a time that saw a significant improvement in the team's overall performance and stability. During his leadership, the Royals not only reached the IPL 2022 final but also made a return to the playoffs in 2024, solidifying their reputation as a consistently competitive franchise.

“It’s a privilege to be back as head coach and to work alongside such a talented group,” Sangakkara stated following his reappointment.

“I’m excited to be supported by an exceptional coaching team. Vikram, Trevor, Shane, and Sid each bring invaluable experience in their respective fields, and we are dedicated to preparing the players in the best way possible. We have a shared vision for our journey ahead, aiming to build a team that plays with clarity, resilience, and purpose.”

The Royals also revealed that Vikram Rathour has been elevated to the role of lead assistant coach, collaborating closely with Sangakkara on batting strategies, game plans, and team preparation. Shane Bond will continue as the fast bowling coach, ensuring crucial continuity for the pace program, while Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri will return as assistant and performance coaches, respectively, enhancing the coaching staff ahead of the upcoming season.

“We are thrilled to have Kumar back as head coach. As we evaluated the team's needs at this point, we believed that his familiarity with the squad, leadership qualities, and profound understanding of the Royals' culture would strike the right balance of continuity and stability,” commented Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of Rajasthan Royals.

“Kumar has our unwavering trust as a leader. His clarity, calm demeanor, and cricketing acumen will be vital in guiding the squad through this next chapter.”

As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, the Royals have made headlines by trading captain Sanju Samson to the Chennai Super Kings, closing a significant chapter in their history.

In exchange, the Royals have secured two exceptional all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, in a game-changing deal that has dramatically altered the squad's leadership and composition. Additionally, the franchise has acquired Donovan Ferreira from Delhi Capitals, further bolstering their middle-order strength and finishing capabilities.

Rajasthan has opted to release the Sri Lankan spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, hinting at a strategic shift towards a pace-driven attack supported by versatile all-rounders.

Despite the changes, the Royals have retained a robust young Indian core—including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Rathore, Riyan Parag, and Yudhvir Singh Charak—alongside prominent international players like Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and promising South African pacer Kwena Maphaka. The franchise continues to support standout performers such as Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Tushar Deshpande, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Ashok Sharma.