Rajasthan Royals Breaks Silence on Dasun Shanaka Signing After Sam Curran Setback

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Rajasthan Royals Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara has backed new signing Dasun Shanaka to fill the void left by injured all-rounder Sam Curran, calling the Sri Lankan an "ideal replacement" ahead of IPL 2026.

The franchise confirmed Shanaka's signing on Monday after Curran was ruled out due to injury, forcing Rajasthan Royals to make a late change just days before the start of the new season. While Curran's absence is a setback, team management expressed confidence that Shanaka's experience and finishing ability will help maintain balance within the squad.

Speaking after the announcement, Sangakkara acknowledged the loss of Curran but emphasised the importance of securing a reliable replacement quickly.

Kumar Sangakkara Backs Dasun Shanaka To Maintain Team Balance

Reacting to the development, Sangakkara highlighted Shanaka's all-round value and ability to contribute in crucial phases of the innings.

"We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam's calibre so close to the start of the season," said Kumar Sangakkara, Director of Cricket and Head Coach, Rajasthan Royals.

He further underlined why Shanaka was viewed as the right fit for the squad structure.

"Sam brings immense value with both bat and ball. However, we are pleased to have found an ideal replacement in Dasun Shanaka, a finisher with the bat and a quality all-rounder who helps maintain the balance of our side."

The remarks suggest Rajasthan Royals were prioritising role clarity while identifying Curran's replacement, opting for a player capable of contributing with both bat and ball in pressure situations.

Dasun Shanaka Expected To Strengthen Rajasthan Royals' Lower Middle Order

Shanaka arrives with significant international experience, particularly in T20 cricket, where he has regularly delivered as a lower-middle-order batter and part-time seam option for Sri Lanka.

His reputation as a finishing batter is expected to strengthen Rajasthan Royals' depth, especially in late-over scenarios where acceleration becomes crucial. With Curran unavailable, Shanaka is likely to slot into a similar role, offering flexibility across batting and bowling combinations.

The timing of the replacement also gives Rajasthan Royals an opportunity to settle their playing XI ahead of the season opener.

Focus Turns To Season Opener Against Chennai Super Kings

Rajasthan Royals are scheduled to begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on March 30.

With the tournament fast approaching, attention will now shift to how quickly Shanaka integrates into the squad and adapts to team strategies.

While losing Sam Curran presents a challenge, the franchise's confidence in Shanaka signals belief that the Sri Lankan all-rounder can step into a high-pressure role and deliver when needed.