Kumar Sangakkara is set to become Rajasthan Royals head coach to replace Rahul Dravid, who stepped down from the role on August 30.

The former Sri Lanka captain has been associated with the franchise as the Director of Cricket. According to reports, Sangakkara is set to fill the void and has already started planning for the 2026 season.

Since joining RR in 2021, Sangakkara has doubled up as the head coach and made the franchise made the playoffs twice in four seasons under his watch.

Rahul Dravid was handed the head coach role immediately after he led India to 2024 T20 World Cup glory. He signed a multi year contract with RR, but left the franchise after a review of the 2025 season.

“Head coach Rahul Dravid will conclude his tenure with the franchise ahead of IPL 2026,” stated the franchise.

“Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, instilled strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise,” the statement added.

“As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise, but has chosen not to take this. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, and millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise.”

In 2022, Rajasthan Royals reached the finals for the first time since their title win in the inaugural season in 2008, but lost to Gujarat Titans in the title clash.

With Samson set to leave the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Sangakkara’s main role is to find a suitable replacement for the skipper role.

Sanja Samson was retained ahead of the 2025 mega auction at a price tag of INR 18 crore, but hardly featured this year. During the IPL 2025 season,he sustained a side strain in the early phase of the campaign and played only nine matches.