Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara is set to return to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a leading role to head the coaching staff after Rahul Dravid’s exit. Dravid left following a structural review, with RR finishing ninth in IPL 2025, earning only 8 points from 14 matches and missing the playoffs.
Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, RR skipper Sanju Samson reportedly requested to be released from the franchise, signaling a potential squad overhaul. The Royals are also expected to part ways with several under-performing players.
Players Likely to be Released:
Sanju Samson: The India wicket-keeper batter informed RR of his desire to leave immediately after IPL 2025. Samson has scored 4704 runs in 177 IPL matches at an average of 30.94 and strike rate of 139.04. His future with the franchise looks uncertain.
Tushar Deshpande: Bought for Rs 6.5 crore, Deshpande struggled in IPL 2025, taking only 9 wickets in 10 matches with an economy of 10.62. Despite previous success with CSK, he may be released. Career IPL stats: 51 wickets in 46 matches.
Shimron Hetmyer: Retained for Rs 11 crore, the West Indian finisher scored 239 runs in 14 matches at an average of 21.72 and strike rate of 145.73. Given his inconsistent performance, RR might look for a new finisher. Career IPL stats: 1482 runs in 86 matches.
Wanindu Hasaranga: Picked for Rs 5.25 crore, the Sri Lankan spinner took 11 wickets in 11 matches with an economy of 9.04 in IPL 2025. He may be released to make room for a more impactful bowler. Career IPL stats: 46 wickets in 37 matches at an economy of 8.41.
With Sangakkara expected to lead as coach, Rajasthan Royals appear ready for a major squad revamp ahead of IPL 2026.
(Tamil Craze)
