Rajasthan Royals are pleased to announce that Kumar Sangakkara has been reappointed as Head Coach of the franchise, in addition to continuing his role as Director of Cricket. Sangakkara previously served
as Head Coach of the Royals from 2021 to 2024, a period that marked a clear rise in the team’s performance and consistency. Under his leadership, the Royals reached the IPL 2022 final and returned to the playoffs in 2024, reaffirming Royals status as one of the most consistently competitive sides over the period.
“We are delighted to have Kumar return as Head Coach. 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, said Manoj Badale, Lead Owner, Rajasthan Royals. 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.”
Vikram Rathour named Lead Assistant Coach of RR ahead of IPL 2026
The Royals also confirmed that Vikram Rathour has been elevated to Lead Assistant Coach, working closely with Sangakkara on batting development, game plans, and overall team preparation. Shane Bond will continue as Fast Bowling Coach, providing important continuity to the pace programme, while Trevor Penney and Sid Lahiri return as Assistant Coach and Performance Coach respectively, adding further depth and expertise to the coaching group ahead of the upcoming season.
“I’m honoured to return as Head Coach and continue working with this talented group,” said Kumar Sangakkara, Head Coach & Director of Cricket, Rajasthan Royals. “I’m also pleased to have a strong coaching team alongside me. Vikram, Trevor, Shane, and Sid each bring valuable experience in their areas, and together we are focused on preparing the players in the best possible way. We have a clear understanding of where we want to go as a group, and our aim is to build a team that plays with clarity, resilience, and purpose.”
(With Inputs from Press Release)
