Rajasthan Royals Coach Rahul Dravid Quits Skipper Sanju Samson Rumoured

Photo:X/@Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals announced on Saturday, August 30, 2025, that their head coach Rahul Dravid will step down from his position before the start of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This decision comes after Dravid turned down an offer to take up a larger role within the franchise.

Rahul Dravid, one of cricket’s most respected figures, had joined the Royals as head coach before the 2025 IPL season. During his time, he guided the team with a calm, strategic approach, and became a key figure in shaping the squad’s culture and mentoring young players. Under his leadership, many players learned valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on the franchise.

The Royals’ official statement highlighted Dravid’s significant contribution, saying he “has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, instilled strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise.”

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As part of a recent review of the franchise’s structure, Dravid was offered a “broader position” to take on more responsibilities beyond coaching. However, he chose to step away instead. The franchise expressed gratitude for his remarkable service, stating that players, fans, and the management extend heartfelt thanks for his dedication and achievements.

Adding to the uncertainty, there are now rumours that Rajasthan Royals’ captain, Sanju Samson, might also consider leaving the team. If Samson departs, it would create additional challenges for the franchise, especially with the IPL 2026 mini auction approaching in a few months. The Royals would then need to find both a new head coach and potentially a new captain, making squad planning and strategy decisions critical for the upcoming season.

Fans and cricket analysts are closely watching these developments. Dravid’s departure is seen as the end of an era for the Royals, as he not only coached but also mentored young talents, helping them grow into professional cricketers. His coaching style, known for calm decision-making and focusing on fundamentals, earned him immense respect among players and cricket enthusiasts alike.

The team’s management now faces a major challenge: finding a new head coach who can maintain the team’s culture and competitive edge. Alongside this, the potential exit of Sanju Samson could require reshaping the leadership within the squad and finding a captain capable of guiding the team through the highly competitive IPL.

This announcement is already generating intense discussions among cricket fans and in sports circles. Experts suggest that how the Royals handle this transition could significantly impact their performance in IPL 2026. With the mini auction just months away, strategic decisions regarding player retention, new signings, and leadership appointments are now a priority for the franchise.

While Dravid’s departure marks a major change, Rajasthan Royals has a legacy of spotting and nurturing talent. The coming months will reveal whether the team can maintain stability and continue its journey of growth under new leadership.

This news is part of trending sports updates and is significant for IPL fans, as it affects team strategy, player dynamics, and leadership roles ahead of the next season. The cricketing world will be watching closely to see who takes over Dravid’s responsibilities and whether Samson decides to stay or leave the team.