IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Sign Dasun Shanaka as Replacement For Sam Curran. The Rajasthan Royals have signed Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran ahead of IPL 2026. Curran has been ruled out of the tournament due to a groin injury. His absence is a major setback for Rajasthan Royals before the season. The franchise confirmed Shanaka’s signing after evaluating multiple replacement options. Shanaka had gone unsold during the IPL 2026 mini-auction earlier this year.
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Despite that setback, Shanaka stayed active in franchise cricket competitions. He was part of the Lahore Qalandars squad in PSL 2026. Rajasthan Royals moved quickly after Curran’s injury was officially confirmed. They identified Shanaka as a suitable all-round replacement for balance. Shanaka provides two roles to the team because he excels as a middle-order batsman and a medium-pace bowler. He has scored more than 1400 runs in T20 international matches while achieving a strike rate higher than 130. His disciplined bowling has allowed him to take more than 30 wickets in T20 international matches. The squad benefits from his ability to finish matches because it makes him a valuable asset.
Strategic Replacement for Royals
Shanaka served as Sri Lanka’s white-ball captain during multiple years before his current role. Rajasthan will benefit from his leadership experience because it will improve their dressing room dynamic. Reports suggest that Shanaka will depart from the PSL before its conclusion to join the Rajasthan Royals. This shows that players have increasing interest in pursuing IPL playing opportunities.
Rajasthan had invested heavily in Curran during pre-season planning. The team management needed to change their strategic approach because of his unavailability. The Royals are currently developing their team through the recruitment of young players and experienced veterans. Shanaka’s addition to the team enables them to use him for both batting and bowling responsibilities.
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The team expects him to produce significant performances throughout this season. The franchises have high expectations for IPL 2026, which will start soon. The Rajasthan Royals want Shanaka to effectively replace the role that Curran used to fill.