Rahul Dravid has stepped down as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals after just one year in charge, bringing an end to his second stint with the franchise.
The Royals confirmed on Monday that the 52-year-old would not continue in any capacity ahead of IPL 2026. Dravid, who was appointed to a multi-year deal on September 6, 2024, was offered a broader role following a structural review of the franchise but chose not to accept it.
In a statement, the franchise thanked Dravid for his contributions, noting his influence on the team’s culture and players across his two stints. His first association with the Royals spanned from 2011 to 2015, during which he served as both player and coach. He returned last year, fresh off guiding India to a T20 World Cup triumph.
The comeback, however, was short-lived. Rajasthan endured a disappointing 2025 campaign, finishing ninth on the points table with only four wins from 14 matches. Several games slipped away from positions of strength, underlining the inconsistency that plagued their season.
Dravid also faced personal challenges during the campaign. After sustaining a foot injury while playing a local club match in Bengaluru, he spent most of the season coaching from a wheelchair, limiting his involvement in training sessions.
The Royals had hoped that Dravid’s experience and calm leadership could steer them towards a second title after their 2008 success, but the 2025 season’s outcome has left them searching for alternatives. One possibility is reverting to Kumar Sangakkara, who was elevated to Director of Cricket when Dravid was brought in as head coach.
Dravid’s departure marks the end of another chapter in his long association with the Royals, a franchise where he helped shape the careers of several Indian players during his earlier tenure. With the search for a new head coach now underway, the Royals face a critical decision as they attempt to regroup and challenge for IPL 2026.
