Kumar Bahukhandi
IPL Team Rajasthan Royals Acquired by American Businessman (Photo: ITG)
A consortium led by American businessman Kal Somani has acquired the ownership of the Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 billion, making it the most valuable franchise in the league. Meanwhile, the team has suffered a setback ahead of the 2026 IPL season, as Sam Curran has been ruled out due to injury and Dasun Shanaka has been brought in as his replacement.
With only a few days remaining until the start of the 19th season of the IPL, a major piece of news has emerged. The race for the ownership rights of the IPL franchise, the Rajasthan Royals, has finally come to an end. American businessman Kal Somani has now successfully acquired the Rajasthan Royals.
According to reports, Kal Somani purchased this IPL franchise—acquiring a 100% stake—for a staggering sum of approximately $1.63 billion (roughly ₹13,600 crore). With this deal, the Rajasthan Royals have become the most valuable franchise in the world.
It is reported that Kal Somani is the founder of IntraEdge, Academian, and Truyo.AI. This consortium is also backed by American businessman Rob Walton, who is associated with the Walmart family. Additionally, the consortium includes the Hamp family, who own the Detroit Lions NFL team. According to reports, the impact of this new ownership structure is expected to become visible starting from the 2026 IPL season.
Rajasthan’s Journey in the IPL: A Retrospective
Speaking of the Rajasthan Royals’ journey in the IPL, the franchise claimed its very first title in the league’s inaugural season—back in 2008—under the captaincy of Shane Warne. However, the team subsequently faced a period of continuous struggle. In 2022, the team made it all the way to the final, only to see the Gujarat Titans clinch the title.
Impact to be Seen from the Next Season Onwards
However, the change in ownership will only come into effect after the conclusion of the IPL 2026 season. Currently, the Rajasthan Royals are fully immersed in their preparations; the team is set to play its first match of the season against the Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati on March 30. Under the leadership of new captain Riyan Parag and Head Coach Kumar Sangakkara, the team’s entire focus remains squarely on its performance on the field.
Sam Curran Ruled Out; Dasun Shanaka Gets a Chance
Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Royals have made a significant change ahead of the IPL 2026 season. England all-rounder Sam Curran has been ruled out of the tournament due to an injury. In his place, Sri Lankan all-rounder and T20 captain Dasun Shanaka has been inducted into the squad. Shanaka has been brought in as a replacement for a sum of ₹2 crore.
The franchise’s Director of Cricket and Head Coach, Kumar Sangakkara, stated that the absence of a player like Sam Curran comes as a major blow to the team; however, he noted that Shanaka could play a pivotal role in maintaining the team’s overall balance.
