Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 22: Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka is set to join Rajasthan Royals in a significant move from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Shanaka, who went unsold in the IPL mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi last year, had later joined Lahore Qalandars in the PSL auction. The franchise secured his services for PKR 75 lakh. With his switch, Shanaka becomes one of the few players in recent times—alongside Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani—to move from PSL to IPL.

According to reports, Shanaka will replace England all-rounder Sam Curran in the Rajasthan Royals squad, with only minor formalities remaining before the deal is finalised.

Led by Riyan Parag, Rajasthan Royals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30 in Guwahati. They will then face Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans on April 4 in Ahmedabad.

Their subsequent fixtures include clashes against Mumbai Indians on April 7 and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10.

Earlier, the franchise was involved in a major trade ahead of the 2026 season, with long-time skipper Sanju Samson moving to Chennai Super Kings. In return, Rajasthan acquired Sam Curran and veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

Notably, Jadeja was part of Rajasthan’s title-winning squad in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 under the leadership of the late Australian legend Shane Warne, having represented the franchise in the 2008 and 2009 editions before moving on to other teams.