Rajasthan Royals have confirmed that Rahul Dravid’s time as head coach is over, barely a year after he signed what was meant to be a multi-season deal.
“Head coach Rahul Dravid will conclude his tenure with the franchise ahead of IPL 2026,” the Royals said in a Saturday statement. “Rahul has been central to the royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, instilled strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise.”
The same release added that, following a post-season review, the 52-year-old was offered a “broader position” but has opted against taking it. “As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise, but has chosen not to take this. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, and millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise.”
That phrasing suggests an amicable parting, yet the timing feels pointed. Royals ended IPL 2025 ninth, four wins from 14, their poorest return since 2021. Dravid had walked in fresh from his stint as India men’s coach and oversaw both the mini-auction and a tricky retention period, keeping hold of Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer. On-field, though, injuries piled up, and close finishes kept slipping away.
Former India batter and TV pundit Deep Dasgupta noted the pattern. “If you’re losing the tight ones, that’s often about clarity under pressure. It’s not only on the coach, but the coach usually pays first.” A similar view came from ex-selector Sarandeep Singh, who called the split “unsurprising, if a tad harsh”.
Dravid’s relationship with Royals is long and slightly meandering. He first signed as a player in 2011, captained in 2012-13, then moved upstairs as mentor in 2014-15. The current exit leaves at least two IPL sides without a head coach: Kolkata Knight Riders must replace Chandrakant Pandit, and Lucknow Super Giants have already started tinkering, recently adding B Arun as bowling consultant.
On the Royals’ staff sheet remain director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara, batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Shane Bond. None has publicly commented — yet. The franchise, champions in the inaugural 2008 season and runners-up in 2022, now begin another search, this time hoping to stitch together something that lasts longer than twelve months.
