Dasun Shanaka is set to replace injured Sam Curran at the Rajasthan Royals for the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League. Shanaka has informed his Pakistan Super League team, the Lahore Qalandars, of his decision to opt out of the contract as he prepares to join an IPL side. The formalities for the replacement are currently being completed.
Curran, who moved to the Rajasthan Royals in a pre-auction trade involving the Chennai Super Kings, has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a groin injury. As part of the trade, CSK secured Sanju Samson, while RR also brought in Ravindra Jadeja. Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars are set to sign Daniel Sams as Shanaka’s replacement for PSL 2026.
Shanaka rewarded for strong recent form
Shanaka enters IPL 2026 in good batting form after leading Sri Lanka in the recent T20 World Cup held in India and Sri Lanka. The all-rounder impressed with aggressive performances, scoring a 20-ball 50 against Oman and an unbeaten 76 off 31 balls against Pakistan.
The 32-year-old also has previous IPL experience. He played three matches for the Gujarat Titans during the 2023 season but did not produce notable performances. Rajasthan Royals will hope his recent form helps improve their balance in the lower middle order with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
Another PSL player shifts to IPL
Shanaka is the second player in recent days to leave a PSL contract to join an IPL franchise. Earlier, Blessing Muzarabani opted out of his deal with Islamabad United after being approached by Kolkata Knight Riders to replace Mustafizur Rahman. KKR had to release Mustafizur at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s instructions due to geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Rajasthan Royals squad for IPL 2026
Rajasthan Royals already have a strong group of overseas players, including Shimron Hetmyer, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Donovan Ferreira, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Kwena Maphaka and Adam Milne.
RR, who finished second from bottom last season, will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati.
