New Delhi: Rajasthan Royals (RR) have suffered a big blow ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with all-rounder Sam Curran set to miss the entire season. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, Curran will miss the entire season with his new franchise due to a suspected groin issue which prevents him from recovering on time.
It is worth noting that Curran was traded from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to RR last year in November. The all-rounder was last seen during the T20 World Cup 2026, with the semifinal match against eventual champions India being his last appearance. RR play their first match of the season against CSK on March 30 after the 19th season commences on March 28.
Curran traded by CSK to RR
Curran, along with Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja were traded by CSK to RR in exchange for Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who has joined the Super Kings camp on Thursday. Curran started his career with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2019 and then played for CSK in 2020 and 2021 before making a return to Punjab in 2023.
He continued to play with the franchise in 2024 as well before the Super Kings bought him back in the last season. The Royals would have been the third franchise the Englishman would have represented in the cash-rich league. As of now, the franchise has not thought of any replacements for Curran but it is mentioned in the report that they have explored a few options and tried to shortlist a player.
As far as the all-rounders in the franchise are concerned, Jadeja and South Africa Donovan Ferreira are the two players who can bat as well as bowl for the one-time champions. Royals had won the inaugural edition of the cash-rich tournament way back in 2008 under the captaincy of late Shane Warne.