Rahul Dravid is set to rejoin Rajasthan Royals (RR) as their head coach ahead of the 2025 IPL season. This move follows the conclusion of his tenure as India’s head coach after their T20 World Cup win in June 2024. Dravid has signed a deal with the franchise and has already held discussions regarding player retentions for the upcoming mega auction.
Dravid’s relationship with RR captain Sanju Samson is well-established, as Samson came through the under-19 ranks under Dravid’s mentorship. This connection could play a crucial role in RR’s strategies for the future.
Dravid’s history with Rajasthan Royals dates back to IPL 2012 and 2013 when he was their captain. He also served as team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015 before moving to Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2016. After a stint with the National Cricket Academy, Dravid became India’s head coach in 2021, leading them to their first ICC title in 11 years.
Vikram Rathour, a former India batter and batting coach, is expected to join Dravid’s coaching team at RR. Rathour has prior experience working with Dravid at the National Cricket Academy and served as India’s batting coach from 2019.
While Dravid takes charge of the IPL team, Kumar Sangakkara will continue as the franchise’s director of cricket. Sangakkara will manage RR’s other teams, including Paarl Royals in the SA20 and Barbados Royals in the CPL.
Rajasthan Royals are aiming for their second IPL title, having last won in 2008. They finished runners-up in 2022 and missed the playoffs in 2023, ending in fifth place. In 2024, they reached Qualifier 2 but were knocked out before the final.
