Rahul Dravid Part Ways with Rajasthan Royals Ahead of IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals have announced that Rahul Dravid will not continue as the team’s head coach for the 2026 IPL season, bringing an unexpected close to his second stint with the franchise. Dravid, 52, had rejoined the Royals in September 2024 with a multi-year contract after a highly successful tenure guiding India to the T20 World Cup title.

Despite his leadership on and off the field, the 2025 season ended in disappointment for the Royals. Finishing in ninth place with just four wins from 14 matches, the team struggled throughout the season, losing several games after being in strong positions.

In a statement, the franchise acknowledged Dravid’s deep influence on the team, citing his instrumental role in shaping the Royals’ culture and values over the years. While Dravid was offered a broader position within the organization as part of a recent structural review, he decided to decline the opportunity, opting instead to part ways with the franchise.

“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,” said a Royals spokesperson.

Dravid’s return to the Royals last year had promised a renewed hope of capturing a second IPL title since their 2008 triumph. However, the 2025 season was marred by his injury, which left him largely confined to a wheelchair after a foot injury sustained during a club cricket match in Bengaluru.

Now, with the Royals looking to bounce back, attention turns to who will take up the mantle of head coach for IPL 2026. There is speculation that Kumar Sangakkara, who currently serves as Director of Cricket, could be in line to step back into a more prominent coaching role.

As of now, the future of Rajasthan Royals’ coaching staff remains uncertain, but they are determined to find a way to return to the top of the IPL standings.