Rajasthan Royals Set to Approach Gambhir For CEO, Mentor and Partner Role

Former IPL champions Rajasthan Royals are reportedly preparing a lucrative offer to bring India head coach Gautam Gambhir into the franchise in a multi-role leadership position. According to a report, the franchise wants Gambhir to join as CEO, mentor and strategic partner. The development comes even as Gambhir remains focused on India’s ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign. India has already progressed to the Super Eight stage under his watch. However, the move faces significant regulatory hurdles.

As per the report, the Royals are undergoing a potential ownership transition. One of the prospective owners has allegedly offered Gambhir a minority equity stake of around 2–3% in the franchise. The proposal is being seen as a “mega offer” aimed at securing his long-term involvement. Gambhir currently has a contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup. Any franchise role would therefore require a major career decision.

The former India opener has a strong IPL pedigree. Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles as captain and later helped the side win another trophy as mentor. He also enjoyed success with Lucknow Super Giants, guiding them to playoff appearances in both seasons during his mentoring stint. His track record has made him one of the most sought-after strategic minds in franchise cricket. That reputation is believed to be driving Rajasthan’s aggressive pursuit.

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Despite the interest, Gambhir is unlikely to accept the offer at present. Under the Supreme Court-mandated Lodha Committee reforms, the “one man, one post” rule prevents individuals from holding simultaneous positions with the national team and an IPL franchise. The regulation is strictly enforced to avoid conflicts of interest. If Gambhir chooses the Royals’ offer, he would have to resign as India head coach. Sources suggest his current priority remains the national assignment.

Gambhir is presently overseeing India’s T20 World Cup title defence and is expected to remain in charge through the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle. Reports also indicate he could target the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics if his tenure is extended. Meanwhile, the Royals continue to be majority-owned by Manoj Badale through Emerging Media, with RedBird Capital Partners and Lachlan Murdoch among other stakeholders. Whether the franchise’s ambitious pitch changes Gambhir’s long-term plans remains to be seen.

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