Rahul Dravid Steps Down as Rajasthan Royals Head Coach After Tough IPL Season

Rahul Dravid Quits as Rajasthan Royals Head Coach After Disappointing IPL 2025 Campaign

Rahul Dravid has stepped down as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, bringing an end to his brief tenure with the Jaipur-based franchise. The announcement was made official on August 30, with the Royals expressing gratitude for his contribution to the team, both as a player in the past and as a coach during the 2025 season. Dravid, who had earlier served as the head coach of the Indian national team, joined the Royals in 2024 with high expectations. However, the season did not unfold as hoped, with Rajasthan Royals struggling throughout the campaign.

During IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals managed to secure only four wins out of 14 matches, a performance that left them languishing at the ninth spot on the points table. This underwhelming run placed immense pressure on both the squad and the coaching staff. For someone of Dravid’s stature, known as “The Wall” for his resilience on the field, the season was a tough outing. Despite his efforts to instill discipline, strategy, and a culture of growth, the results did not align with the ambitions of the franchise.

Rajasthan Royals’ farewell message highlighted Dravid’s legacy beyond just results. The franchise noted, “Your presence in Pink inspired both the young and the seasoned. Forever a Royal. Forever grateful.” This sentiment reflects the impact Dravid has had, not only through his coaching stint but also from his earlier years when he played 46 matches for the Royals in the Indian Premier League. His professionalism and leadership have long been admired, and the franchise acknowledged how deeply he has influenced its culture.

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In an official statement, Rajasthan Royals confirmed that Dravid had been offered a broader role as part of the franchise’s structural review but chose not to take it. The franchise respected his decision and extended heartfelt gratitude for his contributions, emphasizing that his leadership helped instill values that will remain with the team for years to come. This also suggests that the Royals are gearing up for a significant overhaul ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction, with new leadership expected to guide the squad.

Dravid’s exit marks the second major coaching change ahead of IPL 2026. Earlier, Kolkata Knight Riders announced the departure of Chandrakant Pandit, despite his success in guiding the team to an IPL title in 2024. Pandit became only the second Indian coach after Ashish Nehra to lift the trophy, but KKR chose to head in a new direction for the upcoming season. Dravid’s departure, in this context, signals that IPL franchises are carefully restructuring their strategies to prepare for the high-stakes mega auction.

For Rahul Dravid, the decision to part ways might reflect his broader vision for the future. Having already held prestigious roles in Indian cricket—including serving as head coach of the national team—his brief stint with Rajasthan Royals adds another chapter to his cricketing journey. While his coaching career with the Royals did not bring immediate success, his influence as a mentor is undeniable. Many young players credit him for shaping their careers with his guidance, patience, and deep understanding of the game.

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Looking ahead, the Royals will now be on the hunt for a new head coach who can rebuild the side and help them return to their winning ways. With the mega auction looming, this leadership change could pave the way for fresh strategies, bold decisions, and potentially a stronger lineup for the next season. Fans of the franchise, although saddened by Dravid’s departure, will hope that his foundation of discipline and values continues to inspire the team.

Rahul Dravid’s legacy with Rajasthan Royals is not confined to just the 2025 season. From his playing days to his coaching stint, he remains “Forever a Royal” in the eyes of the franchise and its fans. His departure marks the end of an era, but his contributions will remain etched in the team’s history as they prepare for a new chapter in IPL 2026.

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