Sam Curran is set to miss the whole of the IPL 2026 season after sustaining a suspected groin injury. The news is a major blow to Rajasthan Royals (RR) as it comes at a time when the tournament is about to start.
Sam Curran last played on March 5 in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where England lost to the eventual champions India national cricket team in the semis.
Big Trade Move Before IPL 2026 Season
Sam Curran was due to play for Rajasthan Royals for the first time after being traded from Chennai Super Kings in November.
The big-name trade involved:
Ravindra Jadeja going to RR
Sanju Samson going to CSK
Sanju Samson has just enhanced his reputation by being named Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup, and this is one of the biggest transfers ahead of IPL 2026.
Sam Curran’s IPL Journey So Far
The 27-year-old all-rounder has had a rollercoaster IPL career, playing for a variety of franchises:
Read More
Punjab Kings (2019, 2023, 2024)
Chennai Super Kings (2020, 2021, 2025)
It is noteworthy that the all-rounder was made the most expensive IPL player in 2023, with PBKS acquiring his services for 18.5 crores. However, his IPL 2025 with CSK was a dismal affair, with the all-rounder only able to score 114 runs and take one wicket in five matches.
Rajasthan Royals’ Replacement Options
As Sam Curran is likely to miss IPL 2026, Rajasthan Royals are on the lookout for a replacement. However, no official announcement in this regard has been made so far.
Despite that, there is a strong all-round depth in the squad, which includes:
Ravindra Jadeja
Read More
Donovan Ferreira
Ferreira, who is known for his aggressive batting and off-spin, was traded to Rajasthan Royals from Delhi Capitals.
Impact on Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2026 Campaign
The absence of Sam Curran could prove to be very costly for the Rajasthan Royals, as he has the ability to play both bat and bowl. He has the ability to play well under pressure.
RR would now have to rely on the allrounders already present in the team, as well as the replacements, to fill the void left by the absence of Curran.
Sam Curran’s Absence a Major Blow for RR
It is clear that Sam Curran is unlikely to feature in IPL 2026. The setback for Rajasthan Royals comes after they invested in the player through a major trade. The fans can only hope that he makes a quick recovery and returns to action in good form.
ALSO READ: IPL 2026 Impact Players List: Team-Wise Tactical Options Explained
