Rajasthan Royals Coach Questions Sam Curran’s Injury Status
Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara has raised concerns about Sam Curran’s absence from IPL 2026. This comes after the England all-rounder made a comeback for Surrey in the Vitality Blast, despite the team being informed that he was ruled out for the entire season due to an injury.
After the Royals were knocked out in Qualifier 2, Sangakkara expressed his disappointment at seeing Curran return to the field so soon. “We were told that Sam had a season-ending injury, but it was disheartening to see him play a couple of matches for Surrey. We would have really liked him to be with us,” he shared with reporters.
Curran was initially signed by the Royals for ₹2.40 crore but had to withdraw before the season started due to a groin injury. In his place, the team brought in Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka.
Sangakkara acknowledged the team’s adaptability in accepting Curran’s situation and praised the players for their performance, despite losing such an important player. “We acted quickly and brought in Shanaka. The team should be proud of what they accomplished under these circumstances,” he noted.
He also supported the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in maintaining clear rules regarding player injuries and withdrawals. “A well-defined policy is essential to protect the interests of all franchises. Injuries are a part of the sport, and we understand if it’s a serious issue,” Sangakkara added.
Curran’s withdrawal was due to a groin problem that had affected him during England’s T20 World Cup. Following his decision to leave the IPL, Curran mentioned that scans had shown significant damage, requiring an extended recovery period. “This injury has been a challenge for me. After some scans, I realized I needed to step back and focus on my rehabilitation,” he explained.
The all-rounder expressed disappointment at missing the IPL but stated that he was committed to getting fit for future matches. “Missing the IPL was tough. Now, I have to focus on getting stronger and fit for when the time is right,” Curran said.
Curran’s early return for Surrey has sparked renewed discussions about player availability and injury protocols. Sangakkara also highlighted the dedication of other Rajasthan Royals players who supported the team, even when not getting much playing time. “We’ve had our fair share of injuries, but players like Adam Milne, Shimron Hetmyer, and others have stayed committed, practicing hard and supporting the team,” he remarked.
While he didn’t accuse anyone directly, Sangakkara emphasized the importance of maintaining BCCI regulations, stating that they should continue to ensure transparency and accountability within the league. “Ultimately, it’s up to the players, but I believe the BCCI’s strict policies are beneficial for all IPL franchises,” he concluded.
