Rajasthan Royals Introduce Dasun Shanaka as Sam Curran's Replacement
Synopsis
Rajasthan Royals have secured Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Shanaka brings a wealth of experience and skills to the team, promising to enhance their prospects in the tournament.
Key Takeaways
Rajasthan Royals have signed Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for Sam Curran.
Shanaka has extensive international experience.
The signing was made for INR 2 Crore.
RR's season opener is against CSK on March 30.
Shanaka has prior IPL experience with the Gujarat Titans.
Jaipur, March 23 (NationPress) The Rajasthan Royals have officially appointed Sri Lankan all-rounder and T20I captain Dasun Shanaka as the substitute for Sam Curran for the 2026 Indian Premier League season, following an injury that has sidelined the English all-rounder from the tournament.
Curran, who was previously with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, was traded to RR along with Ravindra Jadeja after the five-time champions acquired Sanju Samson from the inaugural titleholders.
“Losing a player of Sam’s caliber right before the season starts is disappointing. He adds tremendous value with both bat and ball. Nevertheless, we are excited to welcome Dasun Shanaka as a fitting replacement, known for his finishing ability and all-round skills, which will enhance our team's balance,” stated Kumar Sangakkara, the director of cricket and head coach.
“The Rajasthan Royals (RR) have successfully secured Dasun Shanaka for INR 2 Crore to fill in for the injured Sam Curran. Shanaka has a rich international experience, having played 6 Tests, 71 ODIs, and 131 T20Is, amassing over 3350 runs and claiming 86 wickets. He has prior IPL experience with the Gujarat Titans (GT),” reported the IPL.
Shanaka was overlooked during last year's IPL auction in Abu Dhabi but was later signed by Lahore Qalandars for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season for PKR 75 lakh. With this signing, he becomes the second player, following Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani, to transition from PSL to IPL this year. South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch had made a similar move, prompting a one-year ban from the PSL.
In IPL 2023, Shanaka played for the Gujarat Titans, stepping in for the injured New Zealand batter Kane Williamson, scoring 26 runs in three matches. He was also re-signed by GT in 2025 as a mid-season replacement for injured all-rounder Glenn Phillips but did not get any game time.
RR is set to kick off their season against CSK at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on March 30.
Point of View
The Rajasthan Royals' decision to replace Sam Curran with Dasun Shanaka reflects a strategic move to maintain team strength ahead of the IPL 2026 season. While the loss of Curran is significant, Shanaka's experience could prove beneficial for the team’s dynamics.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Rajasthan Royals need a replacement for Sam Curran?
Sam Curran was ruled out of the IPL 2026 season due to an injury, prompting Rajasthan Royals to seek a suitable replacement.
What is Dasun Shanaka's background in cricket?
Dasun Shanaka is a Sri Lankan all-rounder and T20I captain with experience in 6 Tests, 71 ODIs, and 131 T20Is, scoring over 3350 runs and taking 86 wickets.
How much did RR pay for Dasun Shanaka's services?
Rajasthan Royals secured Dasun Shanaka for INR 2 Crore as a replacement for Sam Curran.
When does Rajasthan Royals begin their IPL 2026 campaign?
Rajasthan Royals will start their IPL 2026 season against Chennai Super Kings on March 30 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati.
What previous IPL experience does Dasun Shanaka have?
Dasun Shanaka has previously played for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023 and was re-signed in 2025 as a mid-season replacement.
