In a significant move ahead of the 2026 IPL season, the Rajasthan Royals have announced that head coach Rahul Dravid will be stepping down. The franchise confirmed the end of a long and storied relationship with Dravid, who declined an offer for a "broader position" within the organization. This decision marks the end of his latest stint with the Royals, which began ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
After his time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he first joined the franchise in 2011, captaining the team until 2013 and guiding them with his calm and strategic approach. Upon retiring as a player, he transitioned into a mentoring role for the team from 2014 to 2015, continuing to influence a new generation of players. His return as head coach for the 2025 season was widely celebrated as a full-circle moment, especially after his successful tenure as the head coach of the Indian national team.
The Royals took to social media to express their gratitude for Dravid’s contributions. In an emotional statement, they wrote, "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 statement confirmed that he was offered a new, broader role but chose not to accept it. The franchise and its fans worldwide extended "heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service."
Dravid's final season as head coach was a challenging one, with the team finishing ninth in the 10-team league with only four wins from 14 matches. The announcement of his departure comes amidst growing rumors surrounding the future of skipper Sanju Samson. Samson, who missed a significant portion of the 2025 season due to injury, has reportedly expressed a desire to leave the franchise.
The Royals now face a dilemma regarding Samson. While they have the power to retain him for the next two seasons under existing IPL rules, the franchise must decide whether to accommodate his request for a trade. Other franchises, including five-time champions Chennai Super Kings, are reportedly showing keen interest in acquiring the player. Samson is understood to have met with CSK management, and a potential trade deal is being explored, with Rajasthan preferring a player exchange over a cash deal.
