IPL 2026: ‘Not positive on the team’ – Kumar Sangakkara sheds light on off-field turmoil surrounding Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach and Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara has not downplayed the recent turmoil surrounding the franchise and has suggested it portrays them in a bad way across the cricketing fraternity. 

Over the course of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), RR have seen two off-field controversies rock the team. First was to do with team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder, who was handed an INR 1 lakh fine by the BCCI’s anti-corruption unit for using a mobile phone whilst sitting in the dugout. The other included captain Riyan Parag, who was seen vaping in the dressing room, for which he was sanctioned a 25 per cent deduction from his match fees. 

Sangakkara is rightfully not happy with his side being involved in two major controversies this season. The former batter wants the franchise to adhere to their values and culture going forward to set a positive impact on fans, both on and off the field. 

“I think it is, of course, a reflection that is not positive on the team, a controversy of any kind. All I can say is that both those have been addressed by the BCCI and the franchise. And then in terms of the culture, we always try to have a very positive healthy culture. We have our own values we adhere to. And the constant reminder to the players is to make sure they’re responsible to the franchise and to our culture and our values,” Kumar Sangakkara was quoted as saying on ESPNcricinfo.

Despite their troubles off the field, RR have been one of IPL’s best sides in 2026. The inaugural champions are currently fourth in the standings, having picked up 12 points from nine matches. They have had excellent success with both bat and ball, with the likes of Vaibhav Sooryavashi, Jofra Archer and Yashasvi Jaiswal showing a rich vein of form all season long.

RR are due to take on the Delhi Capitals on home soil in Match 43 of the 2026 IPL on Friday, May 1.