Rahul Dravid to coach Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025
According to ESPNcricinfo, Rahul Dravid is set to make a comeback as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR) for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Dravid is poised to take the role after his successful stint as India's coach, which culminated with an ICC T20 World Cup title in June this year. ESPNcricinfo has confirmed that Dravid recently inked a deal with RR and has begun discussions regarding player retentions for the upcoming mega auction.
Sangakkara to continue with RR in other leagues
Despite Dravid's appointment, Kumar Sangakkara will continue his association with the Royals. He has been operating as their director of cricket for three years and will now oversee their teams in other leagues. These include the Paarl Royals in the SA20 and Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). This decision ensures a balance of experienced leadership across all RR's cricketing ventures.
A look at Dravid's history with RR
Dravid has a significant history with RR, having served as their captain in 2012 and 2013. sHe also held the positions of team director and mentor in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. His professional relationship with current RR skipper Sanju Samson dates back to their time together in the Under-19 circuit. This familiarity is expected to be an asset in his new role as head coach.
Coaching journey of Dravid
After his tenure with RR, Dravid joined Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2016 before taking over as the National Cricket Academy's chief in 2019. Two years later, the former Indian captain was appointed as the head coach of Team India. This resulted in India winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, their maiden ICC title in over a decade. Notably, reports of former India batter Vikram Rathour joining RR as one of Dravid's assistant coaches have also been floating lately.
