Kumar Sangakkara Questions Sam Curran’s IPL 2026 Exit, Backs Strict BCCI Rules On Overseas Player Availability

Kumar Sangakkara expressed disappointment over Sam Curran’s IPL 2026 withdrawal after the England all-rounder returned to play for Surrey.

Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara has openly questioned Sam Curran’s withdrawal from IPL 2026 after the England all-rounder returned to competitive cricket for Surrey shortly after leaving the tournament.

Curran was ruled out of the IPL due to what was described as a season-ending groin injury. Rajasthan Royals subsequently brought in Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as his replacement. However, Curran’s return to action in the T20 Blast has raised eyebrows within the Royals camp.

Speaking after Rajasthan Royals’ defeat to Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2, Sangakkara admitted that the franchise was disappointed by the development.

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“We were told that Sam Curran had a season-ending injury, but I think I saw him playing for Surrey for two games or three games now, so that was disappointing. We’d have loved to have had him here playing for us, but I think having got Dasun Shanaka as a replacement when we were told early, everyone should be extremely proud of themselves,” said Sangakkara.

The issue has once again brought player availability into focus, particularly with several overseas stars missing parts of the tournament due to injuries and workload management concerns.

RR Coach Supports BCCI’s Tough Stance

When asked whether the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should tighten regulations further, Sangakkara backed the governing body’s current framework and insisted that strict enforcement remains essential.

The BCCI already enforces a rule that can lead to a two-year IPL ban for overseas players who withdraw after being purchased at the auction without a valid reason.

“A proper tight policy around that is always a requirement. The BCCI has a strict policy on that. Every person goes through injuries, and if it’s a serious injury, (or) a season-ending injury, of course we understand,” said the head coach.

Sangakkara acknowledged that injuries are an unavoidable part of professional sport but stressed the importance of ensuring that contractual commitments are honoured whenever possible.

Sangakkara Praises Royals’ Commitment Despite Setbacks

The former Sri Lanka captain also highlighted the dedication shown by several Rajasthan Royals squad members who remained with the franchise despite limited opportunities throughout the season.

“We’ve had quite a few injuries. We’ve also had players like Adam Milne, (Shimron) Hetmyer, quite a few who’ve come here, not had much of a game. Lhuan-dre Pretorius is another one.

“Kwena Maphaka is another one. They’ve been here, they’ve done the hard yards, they’ve practised, they’ve carried water for the team, and they’ve really worked as hard as anyone else to support the team in this journey. It’s really up to that individual player to decide whether they want to come or not.”

Sangakkara concluded by reiterating his support for the BCCI’s current regulations, believing they benefit every IPL franchise.

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“But I think the BCCI policy around it, it’s very strict now, and that’s the way it should continue to be very strict to make sure that contractual obligations are met properly and genuinely. Every side in the IPL will benefit from that,” Sangakkara added.