PSL 2026: Dasun Shanaka is set to play for the Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season after replacing Sam Curran, who is out with a groin injury. With his all-round skills and recent international experience, Shanaka adds depth to the squad.
PSL 2026 Exit: Why Dasun Shanaka Chose IPL
Before this move, Shanaka had signed with Lahore Qalandars for the Pakistan Super League at a relatively modest fee. However, he decided to withdraw before the season began and shift his focus to the IPL.
The Qalandars were preparing to kick off their campaign soon, but Shanaka chose to opt out and join Rajasthan instead. His move follows a growing trend, as he becomes another player to leave PSL for IPL this season, alongside Blessing Muzarabani, who joined Kolkata Knight Riders after leaving Islamabad United.
Similar switches were seen last year, too, with players like Corbin Bosch, Mitchell Owen, Kusal Mendis, and Kyle Jamieson moving from PSL to IPL during the season.
PSL 2026 vs IPL: Big Financial Gain for Shanaka
Switching leagues has turned out to be a smart financial move for Shanaka. Rajasthan Royals signed him for INR 2 crore, which is significantly higher than his PSL contract.
He has already earned more through IPL stints, including appearances for the Gujarat Titans as a replacement for Kane Williamson and Glenn Phillips. This latest deal further boosts his earnings and makes IPL his most rewarding league so far.
Rajasthan Royals have officially brought in Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for Sam Curran ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. Curran has been ruled out due to injury, forcing the team to make a late change.
Rajasthan Royals Officially Announced Dasun As Sam Curran’s Replacement
Kumar Sangakkara, Director of Cricket and Head Coach, shared his thoughts on the replacement.
“We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam’s calibre so close to the start of the season,” said Kumar Sangakkara, 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.”
Shanaka is known for his calm approach and ability to finish games. He has been a regular performer for Sri Lanka in T20 cricket and brings plenty of experience to the middle order.
Since making his debut in 2015, he has played 131 T20Is, scoring 1912 runs at an average of 20.55 and a strike rate of 128.40. His best knock, an unbeaten 76, came against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup earlier this year.
He also contributes with the ball. As a right-arm medium pacer, Shanaka has taken 46 wickets in T20Is, with best figures of 3/16.
The 34-year-old already has IPL experience, having played for the Gujarat Titans in 2023.
