Rajasthan Royals announced on Saturday that head coach Rahul Dravid will step down ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, declining a broader role offered during a franchise structural review. Dravid’s exit, after just one season in his second stint with the Royals, comes amid speculation that captain Sanju Samson may also leave, plunging the franchise into uncertainty months before the IPL mini-auction.
Dravid, appointed head coach in September 2024, returned to the Royals after leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title. His tenure in IPL 2025 was underwhelming, with the team finishing ninth, winning only four of 14 matches. “Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years, influencing a generation of players and leaving an indelible mark on our culture,” the Royals stated on X, expressing gratitude for his contributions.
The 52-year-old, who previously captained and mentored the Royals from 2011 to 2015, was offered an expanded role but chose to part ways. His departure follows a disappointing season marked by close losses, including a Super Over defeat to Delhi Capitals.
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Compounding the Royals’ woes, reports suggest Sanju Samson, their captain since 2018, is considering leaving due to alleged tensions with management. Though Samson dismissed such claims as “baseless,” his silence has fueled speculation. The potential loss of both coach and captain could destabilize the franchise, which has not won an IPL title since 2008.
Dravid’s coaching legacy includes mentoring talents like Ajinkya Rahane and Samson, and unearthing players like Pravin Tambe during his earlier Royals tenure. His exit follows Kolkata Knight Riders’ split with coach Chandrakant Pandit, signaling a turbulent pre-season for IPL franchises. As the Royals search for a new coach and navigate Samson’s future, their preparations for IPL 2026 face significant challenges.
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