Dasun Shanaka Quits PSL 2026 to Join Rajasthan Royals as Sam Curran Replacement

Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has withdrawn from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement player ahead of IPL 2026.

According to reports from Sri Lankan media outlet Newswire, Shanaka was the frontrunner to replace England all-rounder Sam Curran, who is currently recovering from a groin injury. The move marks Shanaka's return to the IPL after previous stints with Gujarat Titans.

The development comes shortly after Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani also withdrew from the PSL to join Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming IPL season.

Dasun Shanaka Like-For-Like Replacement For Sam Curran

Rajasthan Royals were reportedly assessing replacement options after concerns emerged over Sam Curran's availability due to injury.

Curran joined the franchise through a trade deal that saw Sanju Samson move to Chennai Super Kings ahead of the season. However, his recovery timeline has raised doubts about his participation in the early stages of IPL 2026.

According to the report, Shanaka was viewed as a strong candidate due to his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.

"While there has been no official confirmation, sources indicate that Shanaka is in discussions with IPL franchises seeking replacements for injured players," the report stated.

The report further noted that Rajasthan Royals are among the teams facing injury-related concerns and are actively exploring options to maintain balance within their squad.

Dasun Shanaka IPL Record With Gujarat Titans

Shanaka has previously featured in the IPL during two seasons, both with Gujarat Titans, primarily as a replacement signing.

He was first picked by the franchise in IPL 2023 as a replacement for Kane Williamson, who sustained a shoulder injury during the opening match of the season. Shanaka played three matches in that campaign, scoring 26 runs.

In IPL 2025, he was once again drafted as a replacement player, this time for Glenn Phillips after the New Zealand batter suffered a groin injury. However, Shanaka did not feature in a match during that season.

Despite limited opportunities in previous editions, his experience as a captain and all-rounder makes him a valuable squad option.

Shanaka Coming Off Solid T20 World Cup Performances

If Shanaka completes the move to Rajasthan Royals, he will arrive on the back of encouraging performances in the T20 World Cup 2026.

Leading Sri Lanka during the tournament, Shanaka scored two half-centuries, including a fighting 76 against Pakistan in their final match of the competition.

While Sri Lanka exited the tournament in the Super 8 stage, Shanaka's contributions with the bat highlighted his ability to handle pressure situations.

Rajasthan Royals, now led by new captain Riyan Parag, are scheduled to begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati on March 30.