Rajasthan Royals has announced Sri Lankan T20I captain Dasun Shanaka as the replacement for Sam Curran for the IPL 2026 season, following an injury to the Englishman.

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

Dasun Shanaka brings vast experience and composure to the Royals’ lower-middle order, having been a consistent performer for Sri Lanka in T20 Internationals.

After making his international debut back in 2015, the Lankan all-rounder has played 131 T20I matches for his country and has scored 1,912 runs at an average of 20.55 and a strike rate of 128.40.

He registered his highest score in the format - an unbeaten 76 - against Pakistan at the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

A right-arm medium pacer, Dasun Shanaka has also made an impression with the ball in the shortest format, picking up 46 wickets at an average of 25.10 and a strike rate of 18.2. His best figures are 3/16.

The 34-year-old also comes with Indian Premier League experience under his belt, having represented Gujarat Titans in the 2023 campaign.

Rajasthan Royals will play their season opener against Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati, on March 30.