Rajasthan Royals (RR) impressed one and all with their exploits in the 2022 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).

The Sanju Samson-led side finished the season as runners-up after losing to Gujarat Titans in the summit clash. In fact, it was RR’s second final appearance after their triumphant campaign in the inaugural IPL season.  

Many believed one of the main reasons for their stunning IPL 2022 campaign was the presence of Kumar Sangakkara in the dugout.

The legendary Sri Lanka batter, who is the head coach of the Royals, is hoping to carry the momentum in the 2023 edition of IPL, starting March 31, and said they would like to go one step further this season.

“We would like to go one better this time. Our target would be to complete the job this season by winning the title. We have been doing our homework right and preparing for another excellent effort this season. The overall feeling is positive,” said Sangakkara while speaking during the official launch of the team's new jersey on Tuesday (March 21).

“Even though we did not have the full squad with us, we had a couple of preparatory camps with the domestic players in the last few months. Sanju was around and he has been guiding the youngsters in the off-season on and off the field. Some of the senior players including overseas stars would be joining soon and we would go all out in the camp,” he further stated.

“With the kind of success we had last year, expectations are high from the stakeholders and fans this time around. It would be an added pressure on us to repeat last year’s remarkable attempt, but we are prepared for it. We would leave no stone unturned in our preparations. We have so many quality players in our side and they can raise the bar at the appropriate time,” he added.

While the IPL 2023 is slated to get underway on March 31, Rajasthan Royals will open their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 2.

(With TOI Inputs)