Rajasthan Royals (RR) announced on Saturday, August 30, that head coach Rahul Dravid will step down from his position ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The franchise clarified that while Dravid was offered a higher role, he chose not to accept it. Dravid had taken charge of the Jaipur-based side before the 2025 season, following India’s T20 World Cup triumph under his guidance in 2024.
Despite suffering a knee injury and working with the players while on crutches, he could not replicate the same success with RR. The Royals endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing ninth on the points table with just four victories in 14 matches. In their farewell message to the departing coach, RR posted on X, stating:
“Rajasthan Royals today announced that head coach Rahul Dravid will conclude his tenure with the franchise ahead of IPL 2026. 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.”
“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,” he added.
Official Statement pic.twitter.com/qyHYVLVewz
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) August 30, 2025
“You never know after a season like this”- Rahul Dravid to Ashwin
Rahul Dravid, in a lighthearted remark to Ravichandran Ashwin, said he would remain as coach until the franchise decided to let him go. The 52-year-old admitted that Rajasthan Royals endured a disappointing 2025 season. In a conversation on Ashwin’s YouTube channel (as quoted by Sporting News), he mentioned:
“Till people wanted me to, and not sack me from jobs. After a season like this, you never know what might happen.”
Rahul Dravid’s departure from RR coincides with uncertainty surrounding regular captain Sanju Samson’s future at the franchise. The wicketkeeper-batter has been linked with several teams ahead of the trade window leading up to the IPL 2025 mini auction.
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