Rajasthan Royals Part Ways with Head Coach Rahul Dravid Ahead of IPL 2026 (1 Viewer)

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Rahul Dravid’s time as head coach of Rajasthan Royals has come to an early end, lasting just one season. The franchise confirmed on Saturday that while Dravid had been offered a bigger role within the set-up, he chose not to continue.

The decision comes after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, where RR finished ninth with only four wins in 14 games – their worst result since 2021. Despite being on a multi-year deal, Dravid’s exit follows a structural review by the franchise. To add to the shake-up, captain Sanju Samson, who has led the side since 2021, has also asked to be released ahead of the next season.

“Head coach Rahul Dravid will conclude his tenure with the franchise ahead of IPL 2026,” RR said in their statement. “Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has shaped a generation of players, built strong values in the squad, and left a lasting impact on the culture of the franchise. While he was offered a broader role, he has chosen not to take it. The Royals, our players, and fans worldwide are deeply grateful for his remarkable service.”

Dravid was heavily involved in RR’s retention and auction strategy going into this three-year cycle. The franchise had kept hold of Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer, but their season was derailed by injuries and a string of narrow defeats.

Dravid’s association with the Royals stretches back over a decade. He joined as a player in 2011, captained in 2012 and 2013, and later returned as team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015.

His departure now leaves at least two IPL franchises without a head coach for 2026 – Kolkata Knight Riders, after Chandrakant Pandit’s exit earlier this year despite delivering the 2024 title, and Rajasthan Royals. Lucknow Super Giants are also in the middle of reshaping their backroom staff, having recently added B Arun as bowling consultant.

The Royals’ support staff currently features Kumar Sangakkara as director of cricket, Vikram Rathour as batting coach, and Shane Bond as bowling coach. The team has not lifted the IPL trophy since its fairy-tale victory in the inaugural 2008 season, with their best finish since then being runners-up in 2022 to Gujarat Titans.