PSL's loss, RR's gain! Sangakkara hails Shanaka as 'ideal replacement' for Sam Curran
Rajasthan Royals face a setback as Sam Curran is out of IPL 2026 due to injury. Dasun Shanaka has been signed as his replacement. Shanaka brings T20 experience and all-round ability.
The Royals begin their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30. They will then play Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara has expressed disappointment over the absence of Sam Curran from the IPL 2026 season, calling it a significant setback for the franchise. The England all-rounder has been ruled out due to a groin injury just days before the tournament begins. In response, the Royals have moved swiftly to bring in Dasun Shanaka as Curran’s replacement, with the Sri Lankan T20I captain confirmed in an official announcement on Monday.
Curran had arrived at Rajasthan Royals as part of a blockbuster pre-auction trade involving Chennai Super Kings. The deal saw CSK secure Sanju Samson, while the Royals acquired Curran alongside Ravindra Jadeja. However, his injury has now forced an early exit before he could make an impact this season.
“We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam's calibre so close to the start of the season,” said Sangakkara, who serves as Director of Cricket and Head Coach at Rajasthan Royals. “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,” he added.