In a press conference following Rajasthan Royals' exit from IPL 2026, head coach Kumar Sangakkara expressed his disappointment over Sam Curran's unavailability, pointing out that the England all-rounder, who was ruled out with a season-ending groin injury, has since played for Surrey in the Vitality Blast.
Sangakkara's Remarks
Speaking to reporters after RR lost Qualifier 2 to Gujarat Titans by seven wickets, Sangakkara said, "We were told that Sam Curran had a season-ending injury, but I think I saw him playing for Surrey for two or three games now, so that was disappointing." He added that RR would have loved to have Curran in the squad but had to bring in Dasun Shanaka as a replacement after being informed early about the injury.
Curran has played three matches for Surrey, scoring 141 runs, but has not bowled a single over in the competition. Sangakkara questioned Curran's commitment while acknowledging other players who remained with the team despite limited game time.
BCCI Policy and Player Commitment
"A proper, tight policy around that is always a requirement. The BCCI has a strict policy on that. Every player goes through injuries, and if it's a serious injury, a season-ending injury, of course we understand," Sangakkara said. He highlighted that players like Adam Milne, Shimron Hetmyer, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, and Kwena Maphaka stayed with the team, worked hard, and supported the squad despite not playing much.
He emphasized that it is up to individual players to decide whether they want to honor their commitments, but the BCCI's strict policy should continue to ensure contractual obligations are met genuinely. Sangakkara believes every IPL team would benefit from such enforcement.
Curran's Injury Timeline
Before IPL 2026, Curran had told BBC that he was carrying the groin injury since the 2026 T20 World Cup and that it had worsened over time. "It's an injury that I've kind of been battling with a little bit. It has gradually gotten worse. Missing the IPL was very disappointing," he had said.
Curran was bought back by Chennai Super Kings for INR 2.4 crore in IPL 2025, where he managed only 114 runs and one wicket in five matches. It remains to be seen whether Rajasthan Royals will retain him for the next season.
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About the Author
Pratyush Raj is a cricket journalist with TOI Sports, covering all aspects of cricket. He started his career with Business Standard before joining Times of India in Chandigarh. He has also contributed to India Today Group and The Indian Express. His love for sports was nurtured in Saharsa, Bihar, where Cricket Samrat was his constant companion.
