Rajasthan Royals Sold For More Than Rs 15,000 Crore, Set To Become Costliest IPL Franchise

The Rajasthan Royals possession race is over, and a consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani has emerged because the winner. The consortium reportedly acquired 100 per cent of the franchise at a valuation of $1.63 billion (Rs 15,286 crore). Somani is the founding father of IntraEdge, Academian, and Truyo.AI. He is backed by American businessman Rob Walton, of the Walmart household, and the Hamp household, who personal majority stakes in National Football League (NFL) aspect Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp additionally has roots within the Ford household, who’re co-owners of the Ford Motor Company.

This deal is the most expensive in historical past and, consequently, Rajasthan Royals has grow to be the costliest franchise ever. According to studies, the change in possession will kick in after IPL 2026.

Meanwhile, RR introduced Sri Lankan all-rounder and T20I captain Dasun Shanaka because the alternative for Sam Curran for the Indian Premier League 2026 season after an harm dominated the English all-rounder out of the match.

Curran, who was part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, was traded to RR together with Ravindra Jadeja because the five-time champions acquired Sanju Samson from the inaugural winners.

“We are disappointed to lose a player of Sam’s calibre so close to the start of the season. 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,” mentioned Kumar Sangakkara, director of cricket and head coach on the franchise.

“Rajasthan Royals (RR) have picked a player replacement for injured Sam Curran for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Dasun Shanaka will join RR for INR 2 Crore as a replacement for Curran. Dasun Shanaka has represented Sri Lanka in 6 Tests, 71 ODIs and 131 T20Is and has over 3350 international runs and 86 wickets in international cricket against his name. The Sri Lankan all-rounder has previously played for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL,” learn IPL’s assertion.

(With IANS inputs)