In addition to continue in his position as Director of Cricket, Kumar Sangakkara has rejoined the Rajasthan Royals as Head Coach ahead of IPL 2026, the team announced on Monday.
Prior to Rahul Dravid taking over as head coach for IPL 2025, Sangakkara held the position from 2021 to 2024. The Royals advanced to the IPL 2024 playoffs and played in the 2022 final under Sangakkara.
Manoj Badale, the franchise's lead owner, discussed Sangakkara's appointment, saying, "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."

As a leader, we have always had total faith in Kumar. His composure, clarity, and cricket acumen will be crucial in leading the team into this next round."
Shane Bond will remain the team's bowling coach, but Vikram Rathore has been promoted to Lead Assistant Coach. Sid Lahiri, the performance coach, and Trevor Penney, the assistant coach, are back.