Rajasthan Royals Appoint Dasun Shanaka as Sam Curran's Replacement for IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals' head coach Kumar Sangakkara has expressed disappointment over Sam Curran's injury, which will keep him out of the IPL 2026 season. In response, the team has signed Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as Curran's replacement. Shanaka, known for his finishing skills and all-round capabilities, is expected to bolster the Royals' lineup. The team is set to begin its campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30, followed by matches against Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This strategic move aims to maintain the team's competitive edge in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 18:20 IST

Rajasthan Royals Face Setback with Curran's Injury

Kumar Sangakkara, the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, expressed his disappointment regarding Sam Curran's absence from the Indian Premier League 2026 season due to an injury. He emphasized the loss of a player of Curran's caliber is a significant setback for the team.

In a recent announcement, Rajasthan Royals confirmed that Sri Lankan all-rounder and T20I captain Dasun Shanaka will step in as Curran's replacement, as stated in an official press release.

Details of Curran's Trade and Injury

Curran was part of a notable pre-auction trade between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals, where CSK acquired Sanju Samson, while RR brought in both Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Unfortunately, Curran has been sidelined from the tournament due to a groin injury.

Sangakkara's Comments on Shanaka

"We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam's caliber so close to the start of the season," stated Kumar Sangakkara, who serves as both Director of Cricket and Head Coach for Rajasthan Royals. He added, "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."

Shanaka's Experience and Upcoming Matches

Shanaka is expected to bring a wealth of experience and stability to the Royals' lower-middle order, having consistently performed for Sri Lanka in T20 Internationals.

Rajasthan Royals will kick off their IPL campaign against the five-time champions CSK on March 30 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Following this match, RR will compete against the Gujarat Titans on April 4, the Mumbai Indians on April 7, and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10.

Previously, Shanaka participated in the 2023 IPL season with the Gujarat Titans, where he played three matches and scored a total of 26 runs.