Rahul Dravid steps down as Rajasthan Royals head coach

Rajasthan Royals and Rahul Dravid have decided to part ways ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026, the franchise announced on Saturday. The inaugural champions revealed Dravid was offered a broader role after a recent structural review, but he declined the position.

RR had a forgettable run in IPL 2025, finishing in ninth place after only four wins in the league stage of the tournament. The franchise had failed to win some matches from a shoo-in position and it led to their downfall in the season.

“Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey over many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, built strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise,” the release stated.

“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.”

Dravid had performed the head coach role in a wheelchair in the previous season after picking up a foot injury while playing a club cricket match in Bengaluru.

Dravid was also part of the Rajasthan Royals from 2011 to 2015 as a player-cum-mentor. 

RR might now look for a new coach or they can also appoint Kumar Sangakkara as the chief coach. The former Sri Lankan captain was appointed as the Director of Cricket Operations when Dravid was named as the head coach.

Before taking the head coach role for the franchise, Dravid had led India to glory in the T20 World Cup 2024. Furthermore, the national team had reached the 2023 World Championship final and the ODI World Cup final under his tutelage.