Rahul Dravid steps down as Rajasthan Royals head coach

Jaipur, August 30, 2025:

Rajasthan Royals have confirmed that head coach Rahul Dravid will not continue with the franchise ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League, ending his second stint with the team after just one season.

The franchise said in a statement that Dravid, 52, was offered a broader role following a recent structural review but declined the position.

“Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey over many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, built strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise,” the release said.

Dravid, who previously served as a key figure for the Royals between 2011 and 2015 as both player and coach, returned last year fresh from guiding India to a T20 World Cup title. But his comeback proved short-lived. Rajasthan slumped to ninth place in the 2025 season, managing only four wins in 14 games despite being in contention in several matches.

Dravid also endured a difficult personal campaign, spending much of the season in a wheelchair after a foot injury sustained during a club game in Bengaluru.

With Dravid stepping away, the Royals could either appoint a new head coach or hand the role back to Kumar Sangakkara, who was elevated to director of cricket when Dravid rejoined.

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