Jaipur, March 19 – Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach Kumar Sangakkara stated that the franchise had focused on strengthening several aspects of the team before the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, including improving batting depth and increasing options in the spin bowling department.
RR faced a challenging IPL 2025, losing 10 matches and winning only four, resulting in ninth place in the standings. After releasing all their spinners before the 2026 auction, RR secured Ravi Bishnoi, a reliable Indian spinner, along with all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran through trades.
“We needed to enhance our batting capabilities, improve local spin bowling, and have more options in the bowling department, so we could also adjust our batting lineup. That's what we've been focusing on,” Sangakkara said during the pre-season press conference.
Sangakkara added that the focus now shifts to execution, as RR begins their campaign against CSK at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on March 30. “We can cover all bases and do everything, but it requires hard work to bring everyone together, believe in each other, and prepare well to play against the opposition. Ultimately, performance is key, and the strategy will determine the outcome.”
He also emphasized the importance of players having a positive experience during the IPL. “Players can have great seasons, good seasons, or bad seasons. However, that doesn't mean they are bad players, because the entire point of recruiting players is that we believe they are the best. We want them to enjoy their time and focus on playing the game.”
Sangakkara further explained that the results will follow naturally if the team is focused and well-prepared. He expressed optimism that the team would perform well.
Regarding the appointment of Riyan Parag as RR's new captain after Samson's departure, Sangakkara clarified that the decision was based on Parag's leadership qualities rather than regional identity.
“I want to emphasize that the decision was not based on regional identity. We were looking for the best person to lead the team, and Riyan was the right choice. I had met Riyan when he was a teenager, and he is absolutely right. He has seen a lot and has grown as a person.”
He added that the selection process was rigorous, involving a short list of candidates and a strict interview process.
He concluded by stating that the entire RR management was in agreement on making Parag the team's captain. “The decision was made after careful consideration and with the support of the entire franchise.”