Former India coach declines broader role as Royals face major transition
Rajasthan Royals have confirmed the departure of Rahul Dravid as head coach, marking the end of his brief return to the franchise ahead of IPL 2026. The former Indian captain had rejoined the Royals in September 2024, but his second stint lasted less than a year.
Disappointing 2025 Season Ends in Early Exit
Dravid’s return followed his tenure as India’s head coach, and expectations were high. However, Rajasthan struggled in IPL 2025 — finishing ninth on the points table with just four wins from 14 matches, narrowly avoiding the bottom spot ahead of Chennai Super Kings on net run rate.
Despite assembling a capable coaching staff — including Vikram Rathour as batting coach and Shane Bond as bowling coach — the Royals failed to click. A series of injuries and narrow losses compounded their poor run.
Dravid Declines Broader Role in Franchise Overhaul
As part of a franchise-wide structural review, Rajasthan Royals offered Dravid a broader management role within the setup. However, he declined the offer, opting to move on from the franchise entirely.
“Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years,” the team said in a statement. “His leadership has influenced a generation of players and instilled strong values in the squad.”
A Royals Stalwart Bids Goodbye (Again)
Dravid’s association with the Royals spans over a decade. He first joined in 2011, captained in 2012 and 2013, and later served as team director and mentor in 2014–2015. His return in 2024 was widely welcomed, and while results were lacking, his influence on team culture was praised.
Before IPL 2025, he played a major role in auction strategy and player retention, backing the likes of Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Shimron Hetmyer.
Franchise Faces Coaching Vacuum Ahead of IPL 2026
Dravid’s exit adds Rajasthan Royals to a growing list of IPL teams without a head coach for 2026. Kolkata Knight Riders recently parted ways with Chandrakant Pandit despite a title-winning season in 2024. Lucknow Super Giants are also reshuffling their support staff, having brought in B. Arun as bowling consultant.
RR may now look to either appoint a new head coach or reappoint Kumar Sangakkara, who remains their Director of Cricket. With no title wins since their 2008 triumph, the Royals will be under pressure to rebuild quickly before the new season.
📌 Quick Summary:
- Rahul Dravid steps down as Rajasthan Royals head coach after a disappointing IPL 2025.
- He declined a broader role offered during the franchise’s internal restructuring.
- Rajasthan Royals now join KKR and LSG in the search for a new head coach.
- Despite the results, Dravid is credited with enhancing team culture and strategy.
