Sangakkara back at the Helm: Royals set for fresh push under reinforced coaching team

The Rajasthan Royals have announced the reappointment of Kumar Sangakkara as the franchise’s Head Coach, while he continues in his long-standing role as Director of Cricket. The move signals a vote of confidence in Sangakkara’s leadership following a successful stint from 2021 to 2024, during which the Royals experienced notable growth in performance and consistency.

Under Sangakkara’s guidance, Rajasthan Royals reached the IPL 2022 final and secured a return to the playoffs in 2024, reaffirming their status as one of the league’s most competitive and stable teams in recent seasons.

Rajasthan Royals Lead Owner Manoj Badale praised Sangakkara’s impact on the franchise and his deep alignment with the team’s ethos.
“We are delighted to have Kumar return as Head Coach. His familiarity within the squad, his leadership and deep understanding of the Royals culture bring the right balance of continuity and stability,” Badale said. “Kumar has always had our complete trust as a leader. His clarity, calmness and cricketing intelligence will be vital as we enter the next phase.”

Coaching Structure Strengthened

The franchise also confirmed key changes and continuations within the coaching staff:

• Vikram Rathour has been elevated to Lead Assistant Coach, where he will work closely with Sangakkara on batting development, strategy, and match preparation.
• Shane Bond will continue as Fast Bowling Coach, offering continuity to the team’s pace programme.
• Trevor Penney returns as Assistant Coach, adding tactical depth to the group.
• Sid Lahiri resumes his role as Performance Coach, bolstering fitness and conditioning oversight ahead of the upcoming season.

Sangakkara expressed enthusiasm about returning to the head coach role and optimism about the direction of the squad.
“I’m honoured to return as Head Coach and continue working with this talented group,” he said. “With a strong coaching team alongside me, 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.”