Kumar Sangakkara is set to return as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals after Rahul Dravid moved on from the role last month.

Sangakkara, who served as the head coach from 2021 to 2024, was elevated as the director of cricket last year, with former India captain Dravid taking over the lead coaching role.

However, after a disastrous season, marred by controversies, Dravid decided to part ways with the franchise as he turned down a ‘broader’ role with the franchise.

As reported by Sportstar earlier, Sangakkara was being considered as the best possible option as the head coach. During his three-year stint, the former Sri Lanka captain guided Royals to the IPL final in 2022 and then to the playoffs in 2024. Even though the title eluded the 2008 champion, it could create a pool of seasoned and new campaigners.

“With Rahul moving on, Sangakkara was always going to be the first choice, and that’s what has happened,” a source aware of the development said.

Vikram Rathour and Shane Bond, too, are set to continue as the batting and bowling coaches respectively, it is learnt.

For Sangakkara, the biggest challenge will be to sort out the captaincy issue. According to reports, there seems to be uncertainty over who would lead the team, following reports that Sanju Samson is not keen on staying back at the franchise.

However, ahead of the auction, Sangakkara and the team management need to decide on the potential captaincy choice and also regroup. Despite notable names in its squad – including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel – Royals struggled in the tournament last year, and Sangakkara would be eager to get the side back on track.

Published on Sep 25, 2025