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31.08.2025

Rahul Dravid Steps Down as Royals Head Coach

Illustration for: Rahul Dravid Steps Down as Royals Head Coach

Rahul Dravid has resigned as head coach of the Rajasthan Royals following a disappointing performance in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Despite being offered a more extensive role in a structural overhaul, Dravid declined, according to the franchise.

The Royals ended the IPL 2025 in ninth place, marking their worst season since 2021.

“Rahul has been a cornerstone of the Royals’ journey over the years,” stated the 2008 IPL champions in a release.

“His leadership has shaped a generation of players, instilled strong values, and made a lasting impact on the franchise’s culture.”

Former India captain Dravid joined the Rajasthan Royals in 2011 as a player, leading the team until 2013.

He served as a team mentor until 2015 and returned as head coach earlier this year after Rajasthan failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Reports from Indian media suggest that Sanju Samson, the team’s captain since 2021, is also considering leaving before the next season.

Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara is currently the director of cricket at Rajasthan Royals, with former Indian batsman Vikram Rathour as the batting coach and Shane Bond, the former New Zealand star, as the bowling coach.

The Royals have not clinched the IPL title since their historic win in the inaugural 2008 season under Shane Warne’s leadership.

In 2022, they were runners-up after losing the final to the Gujarat Titans.